Moving to a new city can be exciting—and yet, weeks or months in, you may suddenly feel emotionally worn out, disconnected, or unusually tired.
This feeling is real and valid. You’re likely experiencing something called culture fatigue or change fatigue.
Let’s unpack what that means, why it happens, and how to respond with clarity and care.
What is culture fatigue?
Culture and change fatigue is a form of emotional exhaustion that can occur after relocating. Unlike culture shock, this deeper fatigue builds gradually as you adjust to new routines and expectations, often compounded by overstimulation or loneliness. Recognizing it can foster compassion and resilience.
Why does this happen, even when things are “going well”?
Even if your move was a dream come true, constant changes and decision-making—new streets, new systems, new social norms—can wear you down. It’s like your nervous system is constantly on alert.
Your brain hasn’t had enough time to feel safe yet.
The signs of culture and change fatigue
- Feeling emotionally numb or detached
- A strong desire to “escape” or withdraw
- Sudden exhaustion even after mild activity
- Difficulty making simple decisions
- Overreacting to small annoyances
My personal reflection: Saturated in the city
I moved to Barcelona full of hope and plans—and I still believe in them. But I’ve hit moments where the brightness of the city felt like too much. The streets, the stimulation, the learning curve—it’s a lot. Sometimes I just want stillness. That’s when I realised: I wasn’t failing to adapt. I was simply full. Saturated.
This is what culture fatigue feels like.
What helps?
- Create small, grounding rituals (morning prayers and meditation, evening walks)
- Give yourself permission to rest, not just explore
- Reach out to communities like Women on the Move, where you can be seen and understood
- Journal what feels disorienting vs. what gives you joy
- Celebrate micro-wins (finding your way, ordering in the local language, making one new connection)
A gentle reminder
Change fatigue doesn’t mean you’re not strong. It means you’re human. Being aware of this cycle helps us move with more grace, not just in new cities, but in every transition life asks of us.
💬 Join the conversation
At WEMatter, we believe that community and awareness are essential in navigating these moments.
✨ Have you felt culture fatigue?
Would you like support from others who understand?
Are you a woman on the move, adjusting and adapting?
👉 Drop your story in the comments or share with us at our next WEMatter Circle.
Would you like help navigating a new life chapter?
Let’s do it together—with clarity, care, and community.
📩 Reach out to WEMatter
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🤝 Connect with a peer mentor
