Having a successful re-entry
Here are several things you can do once you return home:
- Give yourself plenty of time to rest and adjust gradually.
- Take time alone just to think, remember and feel.
- Balance your time between work, family, church, social outlets, hobbies and other commitments.
- Keep in touch with team members.
- Create a “memorial” (e.g. photo album, photo journal, video) and a special place in your home to display photos and souvenirs from your trip.
- Try to make new friends with people who have had similar experiences.
- Find ways to use what you have accomplished and learned overseas at work, home, church, etc.
- If you are having difficulty re-adjusting to life at home, tap into your support system; and if necessary, find a professional to talk to.
Psychosocial Support
Some of the environments Medical Teams International works in are more difficult than others, for example post-conflict countries. On rare occasions a volunteer may experience or witness a traumatic event during a trip. In these cases, we strongly recommend that you seek a de-briefing meeting with a psychosocial support professional. Medical Teams International can put you in touch with such a person. Please contact your team coordinator if you would like to take advantage of this option.