Most individuals who study or work in a culture other than their own go through a period of culture shock. This is true even when the host culture seems similar to the home culture. Culture shock is clearly more than only homesickness. It involves a complex of emotions, positive and negative, which arise in association with one's attempts to deal with the new culture's practices and values. However, most of the challenges of culture shock come from challenges that arise within the person. These include coping with new understandings of self and others, rebuilding social relationships, and establishing a sense of one's self as a competent individual while immersed in many things that are different.

There is some suggestion that individuals who experience culture shock go on to achieve higher levels of cultural adjustment than those who do not. This may be because it is a sign of active coping, rather than only criticizing and rejecting the new surroundings. Regardless, while it occurs, culture shock can be disruptive, anxiety producing, depressing, and isolating. It impairs intellectual efficiency and self-confidence. Some may experience culture shock also with increased physical problems.

The following list presents some of the struggles with cultural adaptation identified by clients who have visited the Psychological and Counseling Center. Review these and consider whether we might be of help to you.