Reverse Culture Shock

Reverse Culture Shock & Individual Support

Much coverage is given to culture shock prior to going overseas, we prepare in advance for the process of adjusting to another culture.  Cultural adjustment is a much studied and increasingly well-understood phenomenon. However the process of reverse culture shock recieves less attention.  Coming Home can be difficult. As Craig Stori points out in his book "The Art of Coming Home", the reasons for re-entry shock have to do with change, change within the home enviornment itself during the period of the individual's absence and change within the individual as a consequence of one's stay abroad. Comhlamh has recently published the 6th edition of it's Coming Home Book covering reverse culture shock, health matters, job hunting, further studies and much more, to recieve a copy simply contact us.

"Coming Home Weekends" provide a safe enviornment to network with others in a similar situation and to share tips on readjusting to the 'culture shock' of being home while relaxing and having some fun.  

The Support Service Project Officers for Returned Development Workers and Volunteers are also available to meet with returned development workers for personal debriefing and/or to discuss any aspect of the return process. Please contact Deirdre, our Support Services Project Officer, for further details on 01 4783490 or deirdre@comhlamh.org

An Irish returnee from Bolivia, Jodie, shares her experience of the coming home process clearly and honestly in her article "It's harder returning than preparing to go"  read how Comhlámh's "Coming Home Weekend" helped her in her readjustment

Stay in touch with friends...

Comhlámh on Facebook 

An increasing number of people in the sector are finding it convenient to stay in contact with friends and contacts - here and overseas - as well as making new ones, via the social networking platform, Facebook. Comhlamh now has a presence (and a growing list of Friends) on this platform. If you wish to connect with us online at Facebook, please sign yourself up - it's free.