Depending on where you’re coming from, you may find that the culture in Canada is quite different from what you’re used to. It is not unusual to experience “culture shock,” as it takes time to get used to a new way of being. Culture shock is a reaction to the many changes involved in exposure to a new culture. Children and youth born in Canada may still experience culture shock because they first encounter a different culture when they enter care. If they also experience a new language for the first time, the shock can be greater.
There’s no right way to feel when adapting to a new environment, and these feelings may change quickly, happen all at once, or linger for a while.
Learning about local norms and ways of relating may help you feel more prepared or less alone. Connecting with people or organizations that share your cultural background may help you feel more supported and connected.
You may find that you have been adjusting well for some time, and then unexpectedly find yourself experiencing feelings similar to how you felt when you first arrived. These feelings are usually temporary, and the progress you have made is not lost.
Making new friends, involving yourself in the community, learning more of the common languages, and learning the history of these lands are all great ways to become more familiar.
Making sure that your documents are in order can be difficult, but it is important to be aware of your own immigration status and your own documents.
If you are a temporary resident or are seeking refugee status, you have rights that protect you. While access to some services might be limited, your safety and dignity are still important.
Understanding the law can help you stay safe and recognize when someone might be trying to take advantage of your situation.
Starting life in a new country can bring challenges that are unique to newcomers, including risks related to gender-based violence (GBV). Some risks include:
As you learn more about your new home, you will find yourself becoming more secure and more able to protect yourself and your loved ones from the risks of gender-based violence.
Depending on where you’re coming from, you may find that the culture in Canada is quite different from what you’re used to. It is not unusual to experience “culture shock,” as it takes time to get used to a new way of being. Culture shock is a reaction to the many changes involved in exposure to a new culture. Children and youth born in Canada may still experience culture shock because they first encounter a different culture when they enter care. If they also experience a new language for the first time, the shock can be greater.
There’s no right way to feel when adapting to a new environment, and these feelings may change quickly, happen all at once, or linger for a while.
Learning about local norms and ways of relating may help you feel more prepared or less alone. Connecting with people or organizations that share your cultural background may help you feel more supported and connected.
You may find that you have been adjusting well for some time, and then unexpectedly find yourself experiencing feelings similar to how you felt when you first arrived. These feelings are usually temporary, and the progress you have made is not lost.
Making new friends, involving yourself in the community, learning more of the common languages, and learning the history of these lands are all great ways to become more familiar.
Making sure that your documents are in order can be difficult, but it is important to be aware of your own immigration status and your own documents.
If you are a temporary resident or are seeking refugee status, you have rights that protect you. While access to some services might be limited, your safety and dignity are still important.
Understanding the law can help you stay safe and recognize when someone might be trying to take advantage of your situation.
Starting life in a new country can bring challenges that are unique to newcomers, including risks related to gender-based violence (GBV). Some risks include:
As you learn more about your new home, you will find yourself becoming more secure and more able to protect yourself and your loved ones from the risks of gender-based violence.
