Culture shock down under

It is often assumed that the societies of Australia and South Africa are similar. South Africans underestimate the culture shock they experience when moving.

Immigrants often feel isolated and lonely. They find themselves without family support or help with their daily lives, often for the first time ever.

Australian society, for all its seeming similarity to South African society is really very different. It offers challenges to family gender roles and traditional family structures, which often mean that there are differing rates of adjustment to Australian society between South African youths and their parents. It can also put tremendous strain on relationships as South Africans struggle with everything from the cost of living and childcare to domestic work and maintenance around the house and garden.

Some South Africans have difficulties in dealing with traumatic histories that may have involved a significant level of violence and loss of family and friends.

Although Australians speak English, it is incredibly difficult for South Africans to understand a lot about the basics of how Australian society and culture works. New immigrants have to learn how to use the healthcare and schooling system. Professional qualifications and requirements may differ, and catch up courses may need to be completed.

Families struggle with the pressures of their new life, and often also feel responsible for family members attempting to visit or live in Australia. Many South Africans express their ongoing concern for family members in South Africa, and continue to keep a close eye on the political, economic and crime situation there.

Debbi Carberry sees many South Africans in her practice in Brisbane, where she offers counseling and psychotherapy.

She has dealt with a range of issues that challenge South Africans settling in Australia in her work with women, children and couples who are struggling in the process of assimilation.

She says that the assumptions about what life in Australia will be like are often at the heart of the issue. Day to day life in Australia is vastly different to that of South Africa. Culturally, the two countries are completely different. Very quickly, new arrivals find that Australia is not at all what they were expecting it to be.

Women and children who see Debbi present with high levels of anxiety. In women this often manifests as depression, while it comes out as anger in young children.

Debbi’s advice to South Africans considering immigration is to be aware of the cultural challenges that you will face. Understand that it is not a simple transition into a new country, regardless of which country you settle in. Be aware that the transition will be difficult for all members of your family, and be prepared to seek help. It is important to let go of assumptions, to relax in your expectations, and to allow yourself time to process the enormity of the move.

The great news for anyone considering the move is that there is a lot of support available. Whether you find a support group in your area, or a specialist like Debbi, make sure you look after the mental health of you and your family throughout the process of immigration.

If you would like to contact Debbi Carberry, visit her website on https://debbicarberry.com.au.