"I've moved to a new country, but I don't understand the language and culture—I'm feeling stressed. What should I do?"
Problem:
"I've moved to a new country, but I don't understand the language and culture—I'm feeling stressed. What should I do?"
"Adjusting to a New Country—A Real Experience and Things to Do"
Sender: Lukas Meyer | Student | Berlin, Germany
An unfamiliar country, an unfamiliar language—will I really be able to adapt?
Lucas Meyer arrived in Germany to study a few months ago. As exciting as it was to be in a new country, he soon realized that life here was harder than he had imagined.
"I don't understand the language, I don't know how to speak in the store, people's behavior seems strange to me, and I feel very lonely. Is this normal?"
Lucas is not alone in his struggle to adapt to a new country—many people around the world face this problem. So how does he cope?
Easy ways to adapt to a new country
1. Develop the habit of learning languages slowly but regularly
✅ Truth: Knowing a language is not just for speaking, but also helps build confidence.
To do:
- Try to learn the local language for at least 20-30 minutes every day.
- Use online courses (Duolingo, Babbel).
- Try to say something in the local language at least once a day—whether it's ordering something at the store or greeting someone.
2. Make new friends and try to be social.
✅ Truth: The best way to overcome loneliness is to make friends with new people.
To do:
- Join community groups at university or work.
- Participate in social media or local events.
- Interact with other foreign students or immigrants, learn about their experiences.
3. Take time to understand the local culture
✅ Suggestions:
- Try to learn about local food, music, history, and customs.
- Attend local festivals or events.
- Even if the culture is different from your own country, be interested in learning about it.
4. Be patient with yourself and celebrate small successes.
✅ Truth: It's hard to adapt quickly, but small steps every day will help you.
To do:
- When you succeed in something for the first time, praise yourself.
- If you make a mistake, don't consider it a failure, but rather a learning experience.
- Don't lose confidence—everything is a little difficult at first.
5. Take care of your mental health
✅ Suggestions:
- Spend at least some time every day doing something you enjoy (reading books, listening to music, exercising).
- Seek help from a therapist or counselor if necessary.
- Maintain regular contact with your family to gain mental strength.
Last words
Lucas, adapting to a new country is a matter of patience and practice. It's natural that it will be difficult at first, but it will get easier with time. Learn the language, make friends with the people, and try to get to know the culture. Little by little, this country will become your second home one day!
How was your experience? Share your story!