"Be prepared for symptoms of distress, anxiety or anger from spending time in a culture different from what you’re used to,” writes de Blecourt. “Add grief to those symptoms for the child you’re about to adopt.  Culture shock can lead to poor decision-making and an incredible sense of homesickness. Read up on culture shock and ask for specific adoption culture shock material from your adoption agency. Prepare for this often over-looked area of international adoption ahead of time.”