How to Cope with Culture Shock and Homesickness: Adjusting to a New Environment in Portugal



Moving to Portugal can bring a mix of relief, hope, and new possibilities, but it can also come with challenges, difficulties and uncertainties. You may face new customs, languages, values, and expectations that feel confusing, frustrating, or isolating. You may also miss your family, friends, and the familiar surroundings you left behind.

These feelings are normal and common, and they are part of what is known as culture shock and homesickness. They do not mean you are weak or made a wrong decision — they are part of adapting to a new environment and learning to appreciate its diversity and richness.

.

WHAT IS CULTURE SHOCK?

Culture shock is the psychological and emotional reaction to living in a new and unfamiliar culture. It can affect anyone, regardless of their age, background, or previous travel experience.

It can show up in different ways, such as:

  • Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed

  • Having difficulty sleeping or eating

  • Feeling bored, lonely, or alienated

  • Having trouble communicating or making friends

  • Feeling insecure or inadequate

  • Physical symptoms like headaches, stomach aches, or fatigue



WHAT IS HOMESICKNESS

Homesickness is the longing for the familiar and comfortable aspects of your home country. It can be triggered by missing your:

  • Loved ones and social support

  • Favourite foods, hobbies, or activities

  • Sense of identity and belonging

  • Daily routine and structure

  • Cultural norms and values

Both culture shock and homesickness are natural and temporary. They are part of the process of adapting to a new life.

      COPING STRATEGIES 


      Prepare Yourself

      Do some research about Portugal: its history, culture, food, climate, and daily life. Learn a few Portuguese phrases — even basic words like bom dia (good morning) or obrigado/a (thank you) can make daily life easier and help you connect with locals.

      Keep an Open Mind

      Be curious about differences and see them as opportunities to learn. Avoid constant comparisons with your home country. In Portugal, for example, people often eat dinner late (around 8–10 PM), value long conversations over meals, and may be more relaxed about time.

      Seek Social Support

      • Make friends with both locals and other refugees/expats.

      • Join local clubs, sports activities, or cultural events. Lisbon hosts many free festivals, open-air concerts, and community gatherings.

      • Stay connected with family back home, but don’t rely only on them — building new networks in Lisbon will help you feel more at home.

      On our 🔗 External Mapping website, you can find information about free resources in Lisbon.

      Take Care of Yourself

      • Eat healthy, exercise, and get enough rest.

      • Walk around the city — Lisbon’s parks (like Jardim da Estrela or Parque Eduardo VII) are relaxing places.

      • Enjoy simple pleasures: a pastel de nata in a café, a walk by the Tagus River, or listening to fado music in Alfama.

      • If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

      Celebrate Small Successes

      Adapting takes time. Be proud of each step forward: learning a new bus route, attending a community event, or speaking Portuguese in a shop.


        PRACTICAL RESOURCES

        Alongside Lisbon Project there are some places that can support you, for example:

        • JRS Portugal (Jesuit Refugee Service) – legal, social, and psychological support.

        • Câmara Municipal de Lisboa (Lisbon City Hall) – integration programs, housing and employment guidance.

        • Crescer Association – projects supporting social inclusion.

        • Health Centers (Centros de Saúde) – access to doctors and psychologists through the public health system.

        Remember: you are not alone. Many others share your journey, and Lisbon offers a supportive community ready to help you adjust and thrive. Our Care Team and Bridge Team is also there to support you in this process. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. You can find us in the LP office from Monday till Friday.



        HELP US STAY UP TO DATE: REPORT AN ISSUE, SUGGEST AN EDIT OR LET US KNOW IF YOU ARE AWARE OF ANY NEWS OR SCAMS THAT SHOULD BE SHARED!