What is the best way for me to help my son/daughter handle reverse culture shock?
Embrace them. Talk to them, discuss the journey with them in a more meaningful way than just “what did you like about it?” Spend some time looking through pictures and memoirs, and be active in asking questions if you see they want to talk about it more. Be receptive to new ideas, attitudes, preferences and even different ways of communicating. The important thing to remember is that such changes are almost always positive and enlightening and should be embraced, not seen as foreign or disgusting. Realize that mild depression may set in, as the USA is probably not as interesting or fun as the student’s host country; this will pass but monitor it and seek professional help if it worsens, however know that this is virtually never the case.
