{"id":44649,"date":"2026-03-25T14:05:12","date_gmt":"2026-03-25T13:05:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/?p=44649"},"modified":"2026-03-25T14:05:15","modified_gmt":"2026-03-25T13:05:15","slug":"how-to-face-cultural-shock","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\/","title":{"rendered":"How to face cultural shock: Stages, symptoms and what helps at each step"},"content":{"rendered":"<span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\"><\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 4<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">min read<\/span><\/span>\n<p>Moving to a new country is exciting. It\u2019s also disorienting in ways you don\u2019t always expect. New languages, social norms, academic systems and even daily routines can challenge how you think and behave. That experience is known as culture shock &#8211; and understanding it is the first step to managing it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re studying abroad or planning to, knowing how to face cultural shock can make the difference between feeling overwhelmed and feeling in control. The process isn\u2019t linear, and it doesn\u2019t look the same for everyone. But there are clear stages, recognizable symptoms and practical ways to adapt at each step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This guide breaks down the stages of culture shock, how to identify what you\u2019re feeling and the strategies that help you adjust more quickly in a new environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-are-the-stages-of-culture-shock\">What are the stages of culture shock?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The stages of culture shock are often described as a cycle rather than a straight line. You may move back and forth between them depending on your situation, environment and support system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-honeymoon-stage\">1. Honeymoon stage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The first stage is the honeymoon phase. Everything feels new and exciting. You\u2019re curious, motivated and open to new experiences. Differences feel interesting rather than stressful, and you\u2019re likely to focus on the positives of your new environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-frustration-stage\">2. Frustration stage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Next comes the frustration stage. This is where cultural differences begin to feel more difficult. Language barriers, unfamiliar systems and social misunderstandings can lead to irritation, homesickness or even anxiety. This stage is often the most challenging because expectations start to clash with reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-adjustment-stage\">3. Adjustment stage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The adjustment stage follows. You begin to understand how things work. Daily life becomes more manageable, communication improves and your confidence grows. Finally, the adaptation stage is where you feel comfortable navigating both your home and host cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-do-i-know-if-i-m-experiencing-culture-shock\">How do I know if I\u2019m experiencing culture shock?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The symptoms of culture shock can be subtle at first. They often build gradually as the initial excitement fades and the reality of adapting to a new country sets in. Emotionally, you might feel homesick, frustrated or unusually tired. Small challenges &#8211; like ordering food or understanding instructions &#8211; can feel disproportionately stressful. You may also notice mood swings, lack of motivation or a sense of isolation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-physically-and-mentally-culture-shock-can-show-up-as-difficulty-concentrating-disrupted-sleep-or-low-energy\">Physically and mentally, culture shock can show up as difficulty concentrating, disrupted sleep or low energy. <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" data-id=\"44734\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/culture-shock-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44734\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/culture-shock-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/culture-shock-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/culture-shock-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/culture-shock-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/culture-shock.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Academically, it might affect your ability to engage in class discussions or keep up with coursework, especially if teaching styles differ from what you\u2019re used to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Recognizing these symptoms early helps you respond proactively. Remember, culture shock is a natural response to change and there&#8217;s no shame in looking for help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-actions-help-during-the-frustration-stage\">What actions help during the frustration stage?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The frustration stage is where most people struggle, but it\u2019s also where the most growth happens. Instead of trying to eliminate discomfort, the goal is to manage it effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by building small points of familiarity into your routine. This could be cooking a meal from home, listening to music in your native language or maintaining contact with friends and family. These habits create a sense of stability while everything else feels new.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-at-the-same-time-make-an-effort-to-engage-with-your-new-environment\">At the same time, make an effort to engage with your new environment.<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"44735\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/dealing-with-culture-shock-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44735\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/dealing-with-culture-shock-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/dealing-with-culture-shock-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/dealing-with-culture-shock-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/dealing-with-culture-shock-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/dealing-with-culture-shock.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Talk to classmates, ask questions and explore your surroundings. Even small interactions help reduce the feeling of being an outsider. If something feels confusing, assume it\u2019s a learning opportunity rather than a failure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most importantly, avoid isolation. It\u2019s tempting to withdraw when things feel difficult, but connection is one of the most effective ways of coping with cultural differences. Whether it\u2019s through student groups, shared activities or informal conversations, staying engaged helps you move forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-can-i-build-routines-that-speed-up-adaptation\">How can I build routines that speed up adaptation?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Routines are one of the most powerful adaptation strategies in a new country. They reduce uncertainty and give structure to your day, which helps you feel more in control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start with simple anchors: consistent wake-up times, regular study blocks and planned meals. Over time, layer in activities that connect you to your environment &#8211; like visiting the same caf\u00e9, joining a sports club or attending weekly events. Familiarity builds confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s also useful to set small, achievable goals. For example, learning a few new phrases each day or initiating one conversation with a local student. These incremental steps make the adjustment process feel manageable and measurable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Balancing familiarity with exploration is key. Too much comfort can slow adaptation, while too much novelty can feel overwhelming. A structured routine allows you to experience both without losing stability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-should-i-do-if-culture-shock-affects-my-academics\">What should I do if culture shock affects my academics?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Academic adjustment is a common challenge for international students. Differences in teaching styles, expectations and assessment methods can add an extra layer of pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The first step is to clarify expectations. Speak to professors, review course guidelines and don\u2019t hesitate to ask questions. Understanding how participation, assignments and exams are evaluated helps reduce uncertainty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Time management also becomes essential. If tasks take longer because of language or unfamiliar formats, plan for that. Break assignments into smaller steps and give yourself more time than you think you need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, use the resources available to you. Universities often offer academic support, mentoring and counseling services designed specifically for international students. Seeking help early is a strategic decision that supports long-term success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-facing-cultural-shock-is-part-of-building-a-global-mindset\">Facing cultural shock is part of building a global mindset<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Learning how to face cultural shock is about more than adapting to a new country. It\u2019s about developing the ability to navigate complexity, communicate across differences and grow through unfamiliar experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Over time, what once felt uncomfortable becomes part of your skill set. You learn to interpret new environments faster, connect with different perspectives and operate with greater confidence. These are the foundations of a global mindset.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re preparing to study abroad or already experiencing the culture shock roller coaster, remember that each stage serves a purpose. With the right strategies, support and mindset, adaptation will become a defining part of your personal and professional growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns banner h-banner banner-b is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading banner-title\" id=\"boost-your-career-with-our-master-in-management\">Make the move abroad with IE University<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"banner-content\">Enjoy the benefits of a global education with our English-language master&#8217;s degrees.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button banner-btn\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Learn more<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Make the most of your study-abroad journey.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":56,"featured_media":44732,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","_wpscppro_dont_share_socialmedia":false,"_wpscppro_custom_social_share_image":0,"_facebook_share_type":"","_twitter_share_type":"","_linkedin_share_type":"","_pinterest_share_type":"","_linkedin_share_type_page":"","_instagram_share_type":"","_medium_share_type":"","_threads_share_type":"","_google_business_share_type":"","_selected_social_profile":[],"_wpsp_enable_custom_social_template":false,"_wpsp_social_scheduling":{"enabled":false,"datetime":null,"platforms":[],"status":"template_only","dateOption":"today","timeOption":"now","customDays":"","customHours":"","customDate":"","customTime":"","schedulingType":"absolute"},"_wpsp_active_default_template":true},"categories":[1072,389],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-44649","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-living-in-madrid","category-student-life-experience"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.4 (Yoast SEO v27.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to face cultural shock: Stages, symptoms, tips | IE University<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Finding your move abroad difficult? Worried about flying the nest? Read our guide on how to face cultural shock and enjoy yourself.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to face cultural shock: Stages, symptoms and what helps at each step\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Finding your move abroad difficult? Worried about flying the nest? Read our guide on how to face cultural shock and enjoy yourself.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Uncover IE\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-03-25T13:05:12+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-03-25T13:05:15+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/how-to-face-cultural-shock.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2560\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1375\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Benjamin Bridson\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Benjamin Bridson\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"6 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Benjamin Bridson\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/40456c228b5d3161530c80ce4cb0ede6\"},\"headline\":\"How to face cultural shock: Stages, symptoms and what helps at each step\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-03-25T13:05:12+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-03-25T13:05:15+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":1051,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/03\\\/how-to-face-cultural-shock.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Living in Madrid\",\"Student Life &amp; Experience\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\\\/\",\"name\":\"How to face cultural shock: Stages, symptoms, tips | IE University\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/03\\\/how-to-face-cultural-shock.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-03-25T13:05:12+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-03-25T13:05:15+00:00\",\"description\":\"Finding your move abroad difficult? Worried about flying the nest? Read our guide on how to face cultural shock and enjoy yourself.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/03\\\/how-to-face-cultural-shock.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/03\\\/how-to-face-cultural-shock.jpg\",\"width\":2560,\"height\":1375,\"caption\":\"Girl overcoming cultural shock while studying abroad\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Portada\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"How to face cultural shock: Stages, symptoms and what helps at each step\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/\",\"name\":\"Uncover IE\",\"description\":\"Uncover IE\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Uncover IE\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2021\\\/03\\\/logo.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2021\\\/03\\\/logo.png\",\"width\":1609,\"height\":356,\"caption\":\"Uncover IE\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"}},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/40456c228b5d3161530c80ce4cb0ede6\",\"name\":\"Benjamin Bridson\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/04\\\/cropped-ie_emba_abril2514674-1-scaled-1-96x96.jpg\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/04\\\/cropped-ie_emba_abril2514674-1-scaled-1-96x96.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/04\\\/cropped-ie_emba_abril2514674-1-scaled-1-96x96.jpg\",\"caption\":\"Benjamin Bridson\"},\"description\":\"Benjamin is the editor of Uncover IE. His writing is featured in the LAMDA Verse and Prose Anthology Vol. 19, The Primer and Moonflake Press. Benjamin provided translation for \\\"FalseStuff: La Muerte de las Musas\\\", winner of Best Theatre Show at the Max Awards 2024. Benjamin was shortlisted for the Bristol Old Vic Open Sessions 2016 and the Alpine Fellowship Writing Prize 2023.\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ie.edu\\\/uncover-ie\\\/author\\\/ben-bridson\\\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"How to face cultural shock: Stages, symptoms, tips | IE University","description":"Finding your move abroad difficult? Worried about flying the nest? Read our guide on how to face cultural shock and enjoy yourself.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"How to face cultural shock: Stages, symptoms and what helps at each step","og_description":"Finding your move abroad difficult? Worried about flying the nest? Read our guide on how to face cultural shock and enjoy yourself.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\/","og_site_name":"Uncover IE","article_published_time":"2026-03-25T13:05:12+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-03-25T13:05:15+00:00","og_image":[{"width":2560,"height":1375,"url":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/how-to-face-cultural-shock.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Benjamin Bridson","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Benjamin Bridson","Est. reading time":"6 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\/"},"author":{"name":"Benjamin Bridson","@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/#\/schema\/person\/40456c228b5d3161530c80ce4cb0ede6"},"headline":"How to face cultural shock: Stages, symptoms and what helps at each step","datePublished":"2026-03-25T13:05:12+00:00","dateModified":"2026-03-25T13:05:15+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\/"},"wordCount":1051,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/how-to-face-cultural-shock.jpg","articleSection":["Living in Madrid","Student Life &amp; Experience"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\/","url":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\/","name":"How to face cultural shock: Stages, symptoms, tips | IE University","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/how-to-face-cultural-shock.jpg","datePublished":"2026-03-25T13:05:12+00:00","dateModified":"2026-03-25T13:05:15+00:00","description":"Finding your move abroad difficult? Worried about flying the nest? Read our guide on how to face cultural shock and enjoy yourself.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/how-to-face-cultural-shock.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/how-to-face-cultural-shock.jpg","width":2560,"height":1375,"caption":"Girl overcoming cultural shock while studying abroad"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-face-cultural-shock\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Portada","item":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"How to face cultural shock: Stages, symptoms and what helps at each step"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/","name":"Uncover IE","description":"Uncover IE","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/#organization","name":"Uncover IE","url":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/logo.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/logo.png","width":1609,"height":356,"caption":"Uncover IE"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"}},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/#\/schema\/person\/40456c228b5d3161530c80ce4cb0ede6","name":"Benjamin Bridson","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/cropped-ie_emba_abril2514674-1-scaled-1-96x96.jpg","url":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/cropped-ie_emba_abril2514674-1-scaled-1-96x96.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/cropped-ie_emba_abril2514674-1-scaled-1-96x96.jpg","caption":"Benjamin Bridson"},"description":"Benjamin is the editor of Uncover IE. His writing is featured in the LAMDA Verse and Prose Anthology Vol. 19, The Primer and Moonflake Press. Benjamin provided translation for \"FalseStuff: La Muerte de las Musas\", winner of Best Theatre Show at the Max Awards 2024. Benjamin was shortlisted for the Bristol Old Vic Open Sessions 2016 and the Alpine Fellowship Writing Prize 2023.","url":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/author\/ben-bridson\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44649","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/56"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=44649"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44649\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":44738,"href":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44649\/revisions\/44738"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/44732"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=44649"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=44649"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=44649"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}