Reverse Culture Shock & Depression Coming Back to America: MY STORY
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 15 ก.ย. 2024
- I came back from a 6-week missions trip in Thailand and went through this awful reverse culture. The first few hours back in the airport/at customs felt so scary and confusing. Then after a few days back I went through this period of intense crying and loneliness and felt SO broken =''(
I'm going back to Thailand this summer!! And I NEED money; donate to my missions trip: t.co/FEqY9RPngc & email me lizziesanswers@gmail.com so I can thank you :)
"What I'm Packing for Thailand" • What's in my Suitcase?...
This was great. I have heard stories like this and it's so hard/sad. The world needs so much love! So glad you're spreading the gospel and spreading love. Keep going girl! God bless you!!
girl, i feel you! I just got back from england studying abroad and i agree with everything you just said. It's so depressing and you're just like "ew, america" hahaha
I went to visit America last winter. The people at the airport were interrogating me and everyone was frowning. I am glad to hear you talk about culture shock because I have went through it a lot. I am glad you are finally adjusting. I used to kind of be mad at God because he made me go through it so much. Traveling so much made me an outsider, but it has also made me able to understand a lot of people. It is a gift to go through it all.
*Part 1*
Hey Lizzie, I feel so good by listening to u talking about what u've been through when u came back from ur trip. I'm currently in Argentina but on 2009 I went on mission trip to LA, US then PNG, then to Australia, then to US with a group or young people around my age (I was the only latinamerican there and I LOVED it!) then everything changed when I came back to Argentina.
So glad your feeling better I was starting to get lonely and had nothing to do without you and your videos!
I feel like this is seeing the real you, moreso than in a lot of your other recent videos. You don't need to fake being overly happy all the time with us Lizzie, we love you exactly the way you are!
I'm really glad you are able to share what you have been going through and the wisdom you gained through it. I've been through a lot this past year and I just started my freshman year away from home and your words will definitely help me through all the change. You are such an amazing messenger of God. :)
Thank you SO much for the video! You completely understand.
I just returned from PNG last week. We had a debrief and talked about expecting reverse culture shock all throughout the trip, so I knew it was coming. However, that doesn't make it easy now, when I'm in it.
I'd been noticing little differences of everyday life. So many things that I have to do differently here that when I was living in PNG for 2 months. So my brain is always processing those, and it's tiring.
Compare it to my phone, and getting fb notifications every. two. minutes. You hear the little 'ping' constantly. It's very stressful. It wears you out emotionally.
So today I just was overwhelmed and cried. That's why I looked up reverse culture shock and found your video.
I know exactly what you mean about having less time for God. Over there everything revolves around that Bible. It's missions work. Here, there's school and work and home life. People don't talk about the issues that matter eternally as much as when it's YOUR JOB. So I miss that. But God is here just as much as in Thailand and PNG. And though it hurts, it may be a good thing that we desire to read His Word, and are thirsty from the lack of it's constant presence in our lives. I would encourage you to NOT adapt to reading it less. Sneak in bits when you can.
I have a little purse-sized Bible that I keep with me. Try getting one and just pulling it out in between classes. Read a little at lunch, or while you're waiting for the class to start. Read a little before bed, or when you wake up in the morning.
I know it's not the same as what we had when we were overseas, but it IS something. It satisfies that hunger inside.
Journaling. You might find it helpful to keep a small notebook in your purse and just write down what you are feeling when you have are having a rough time. I wrote about my tears today. 1st time I cried since I was back. Or if you think you are adjusting well and had a breakthrough, write that down.
I find it helps me step back from my emotions and process it all.
And finally, keep in contact with the people you love. Do you miss the friends you made in Thailand? Try and email them. Are they on Facebook? Do you have their number? Look them up!
I know one of the major things I miss about my new life back is how caring everyone was- people would stop and talk to you, or smile, or just say hi. I was on a missions base for part of my time, and so I got used to running into many familiar faces where ever I went. Coming back, I would look around and not recognize anyone. It's a very lonely feeling.
So, I just wanted to thank you for your video, Lizzie, and hopefully encourage you as well. If you want to send me and email, I'd really enjoy hearing how you're adjusting a year later.
Thanks again, and take care!
I relate to this so much.. I went and helped at a summer camp that was having a day camp from Burmese and Thai refugees and I had some of the most amazing experiences there and I miss it so much. I've been home for almost two months and I never cry about it, I just always miss it. This video helped so much with like putting into words how I feel and really truly helped me not feel so sad about it, I feel like no one at home understands and this was just perfect.
I'm glad you are doing better! I really missed you since you haven't uploaded recently. This story somewhat reminds me of how I felt in summer 2012 when I was going through a really hard time in my life emotionally but I eventually got through it and I am thankful I went through that. Also that summer I found your TH-cam channel and your videos really helped me. :)
I know this is a old video. I was encouraged by this video. I have been living in SE Asia for almost two years and will be going back to America in December, and the reverse culture shock is already making me nervous (I've dealt with it before, but not after fully living overseas, only for short term trips)
I've been asking the Lord to help me let go of bitterness or anger towards American culture and to help me let go of my season here in SE Asia.
Thank you for sharing your experience and sharing the light of Jesus.
Hey there, I just felt God telling me to respond to you right now. I just want you to know that the fact you want to overcome these doubts is such a great thing. God sees that and when you go through testing times in your life there's always a reason for it, and you will overcome and be strengthened through those tough times and in the end come out a better person for trusting in God even when you do have doubts! I'll be praying for you Aly.
I love this. Thank you for sharing this amazing testimony, keep up what you're doing because God is so proud of you and you are encouraging so many other people and being the influence! Thank you!
Thank you for this video, you have no idea how it had help me and others. Just now I have a friend that it is feeling this way, I hope she will feel better after watching your video.
This video was very well done, Lizzie!! You have an incredible talent and heart. Excited to see where God will lead you!
*Part 2*
I've always felt comfortable with northamericans + my bestie is from Germany and my other bestie is half-northamerican.I've prayed since 2008 + I'm working so I can move to Canada soon. I don't feel peace anymore,a lot of trouble has happened here in Argentina since I came back and everything just pretty much got worse.
Love your videos! I've been feeling sad for the past couple of months so this really hit home for me. Thank you for sharing your perspective
Something to remember when this goes on is Ecclesiastes 7:3 sorrow is better than laughter: for by sadness of the countenance thr heart is made better. Your testimony is a great exanple of of verse
okay.. this video impacted me in so many ways! I just recently went to a trip with my church to street witness over a weekend by the angel stadium and after
Thank you so much for all your love and wisdom Lizzie! Everything you said was so humane and truthful and for all your humbleness I am so thankful! Each and every day I try to live a life of humility vs. selfishness and it is so tough sometimes! But when you take a step back and look and what God gives you, and what you have learned, then it all makes sense! Thank you for being a young inspiring youtube woman in the works of something great for what God wants.
Speaking from personal experience people who immigrate to the United States of America don't feel the way you described. I was jumping up and down and almost kissed the floor when I stepped out from the airplane. I was so happy finally to be here. :)
I went on a mission trip to Pine Ridge, South Dakota, and I actually experienced a lot of frustration with feeling inadequate even while on my trip. So, I get the feeling. I didn't have any crazy culture shock when I returned because it was 2-3 days of driving to get back, so I had lots of thinking time. But, I do have an entirely different perspective in everyday life.
leo pard No, South Dakota--the state in the U.S. :)
leo pard Even though you're not a US citizen, you might know about how the American government, both in the past and to some degree currently, has mistreated Native American people and taken away their land and massacred their people, along with all other manner of tragedies. Many Native Americans now live on reservations, and the particular reservation which I was on has been struggling in some areas for quite awhile now. There are some affluent, middle or upper class Native people that live in Pine Ridge, and there are also some people who aren't so blessed. The parts of Pine Ridge Reservation where I visited and briefly served were some of the poorer parts, and those more affected by alcoholism. It was just very different from the very white, Southern U.S. where I live.
As far as being a Christian, the Christian community I encountered at Pine Ridge Baptist Church was very strong. There are also many non-Christians on the reservation, but the culture shock for me was more economic than religious.
Ginger Braid Girl Ah, ok, you didn't mention that it was a Natives' reservation, that's why it was confusing.
Anyway, I wish good for them.
:) and thanks for the explanation
Wow it seems like a mostly bad holiday. Can you make a video about everyone's comments and stuff. Oh and please please please one about excuses for home work :D
YES! Airports are designed deliberately to NOT be inviting :) Their main purpose is an area to move people from one place to another.. They make them seem hostile so people don't stay there or feel homey in there, so don't worry about how you felt :)
Thank you for making videos and talking about your faith openly it make me want I share my faith more with me peers.
"Joy is the settled assurance that God is in control of all the details of my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything is going to be alright, and the determined choice to praise God in every situation." - Kay Warren
I had this depression when I came home from the USA (I was at my grand oncle and aunt) for a few weeks. And I hope to go back soon.
this video impacted me in so many ways! I recently went on a trip with mmy church to street witness in anehia
This is like totally unrelated Lizzie, But I have a crush on my Ex's best friend, and I think he likes me, but hes kinda sending mixed signals. Is it because I used to date his friend that he'd feel it was wrong if he dated me?
I don't know if you will be able to help me or if you will even read this comment, but I wanted to know how you balance church and friends who may not necessarily go to church or go to your church without pushing away your unchurched friends? I've had quite of bit of trouble with this lately because I am really really involved in church, if you know how to answer my question I'd love to hear your answer. P.S. it is so refreshing to watch videos from a youtuber who is so open about their faith(:
Love you Lizzy :) thanks for sharing,we all feel down sometimes
I held back crying once and it was not good I had wished I continued to cry and not stop
Yay!! You're Back!!
*Part 3* (Last part, lol)
I also didn't feel God, and I questioned about His existence sometimes, cried (still crying a lot) but I also came to the conclusion that my home is in Heaven, no matter what my passport says, and my heart is still within God's heart too so I'm safe and there's nothing to worry about.
OMG I just got over feeling like that like a week ago...Thank God I'm over it now though.
I feel that way too, so lonely and sad inside
Sorry for so many comments but... I would love your advise. I have a VERY annoying stalker. Every where like he thinks I'm his friend when (I don't mean to be rude but he dosnt have any) he dosnt listen to little hints or fairly obvious one (I have personal reson that I don't want to get in to about him that I dislike) he dosnt pay attention to ditching (I know it rude) hinting to go to someone else or ignoring (for over a YEAR) what would be the nice thing to do you are on such a higher....
I love you god loves you don't ever stop making these videos I wish I could be as connected to god as you
Hi Lizzie I'm aly and I'm 13 years old. I been raise in a Christian home for all my life but lately since May I been doubting about whether God is real even though I believe he's real and this summer I got to know more bout his word, the Bible. But since school started again, the doubts been turning for the worst. Do you have any advice. Well pray for me. ✌
Btw you have a lovely tan! Keep strong! You'll make it through! Every cloud has a silver lining :)
I know the exact feeling that you were talking about, it sucks.
I was watching your how to tell if a girl likes you and I was wondering. What if she acts like a complete idiot around you but doesnt talk to you that much? (Keep in mind that I am in the shy guy category) pm me with answer please
What is your Myers-Briggs personality type?
Hi lizzie, when you are feeling better and ready to upload a video I was wondering if you could make a video about courtship vs dating and which one you think is better. Also you could give cool Christian dating advice for girls and guys because most of the advice out there isn't. Also, should you wait to tell a boyfriend or girlfriend about your spirituality before you date, or after when you are serious together. Thanks, if you read this lol
just remember youre not alone i care about and love you keep believing in God (air hug)
Here are a couple of verses that I really like. In Matthew 11:28-30 Jesus says "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." 2 Corinthians 12:9 "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."
I can do all thing through christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
Can you please make a video on depression?
You're awesome! Hope that you continue to find God's joy for you!
After learning about apologetics in the christian faith, I can't recall questioning the existence of a God, at least logically speaking.
I might seem kinda apathetic but apologetics really reinforced my faith and gave me a strong defense and offense to our atheistic society.
William Lane Craig e.g. have debated all atheist front figures and is a great inspiration on the academical and university scene, or Venomfangx the known christian among atheists on yt.
Check them out, it really helped me
You should have asked us to pray for you over 80000 people LOVE you
TSA isn't making it easier for people in airports :/
Wow.. that's really cool I have never heard of that..
I Love You Lizzie your awesome! :) ♡♥♡♥-MuchLove
I'm that person too ;-) ppl come to me for advice yet I rarely tell anyone my problems
where is the zebra background?!
You're so beautiful inside and out!
Do you speak Thai?
How bout ur testimony?
You're not alone! :)
Love you too amazing girl!! =)
I am having the same thing
This is how I feel when I get back from Bible camp!
I didn't see my comment, so I'm re-posting it. Here are a couple of verses that I really like. In Matthew 11:28-30 Jesus says "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." And 2 Corinthians 12:9 "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."
Of thinking then me and come up with better ideas.
tEARS.,.?
Check out philipians 4:13
this video impacted me in so
9 hours of day of God that will be awesome!
My campus minister's name is Linda!
Yes please make a video about doubting god
Hi Lizzie.
This never happens to guys
I think it would be very interesting if you made a video about other religions, and why you believe Christianity is right for you
You thanked God for hurting you... Just think about that for a moment. Think about what you are saying. God doesn't hurt people. He builds people up.
Praise God!!
do you ever question that there is a god?
well its good that is helped you, i wish it could be the same for me but i just have too many quastions :l
not that im saying he isnt there, i hope there is a god but i just dont believe in old books
I understand being in the presence of God for so long at one time is so amazing and peaceful it makes you unfamiliar with the chaos of modern life coming from God's lap to the world infested demonic forces you were under tremendous attack cause closer you get to God the more Satan wants you but be strong and of good courage for the God that you love and fear will help you concur the biggest and badest demons in hell
Holy run-on sentence! Jesus Christ.
Wowww!! You perfectly understood how I felt last year! All of that is exactly what was going on!
"Travel is good."
You should be able to send a private message
aye sorry I accidentally sent that....
Your so pretty ^___^
sOmetTUIiiiIMes i cRY D:
Can't feel God's love? Time to develop a new coping mechanism!
Reverse culture shock
after 5 weeks
XD
Exactly. What a stupid woman. She needs her daddy attention or some shit.
-3
D:
okay can I message you somehow? lol
Your beautiful
U have issues girl!
13 Signs A Girl Doesn't Like You
I like you :)
If u dnt like murica then you can get out
Philosophy Club and you're that religiously swayed? Wow. Figured you would have an open mind
:)
You say "like" WAY too much.