Each individual’s reactions to their experiences volunteering overseas can vary. This can depend on many things, however it is guaranteed that you will return changed to some extent by your experiences.
When you get home, there are a number of things you should prioritise to ensure that you are mentally and physically fit after your experience overseas.
AIDS knows no social or geographical boundaries, and so it’s important to be aware that you might have been exposed to HIV while overseas.
Volunteering overseas can affect not only your physical health, but also your mental and emotional well-being. For many people coming home can be a time of confusion and of differing emotions.
On returning, you may need time to process your experiences and to readjust to life at home. There are many issues that may cause you to ask questions or feel out of place when you return home. Comhlámh facilitates “Coming Home” weekends and can organise counseling to help you to reflect on your experience and deal with any issues you may have.
It is important that you create a supportive environment for yourself on your return home. This can help you to process what you experienced overseas and to use your new knowledge in a positive way.
Sharing your stories with others can help you reflect on and continue to learn from your experiences. This can mean more than just chatting with friends and family and there are a variety of ways that you can use your experiences on your return home.