Cross-cultural adjustment can be difficult and varies greatly between individuals. The experience is often likened to a roller coaster, with periods of elation and depression. There are typically stages in the adjustment process including an initial "honeymoon period", followed by culture shock as problems arise, then an initial adjustment period as everyday tasks are managed. Later, individuals may feel mental isolation and loneliness before finally reaching acceptance and integration in the new culture. Developing social relationships with others from one's own and the new culture can help ease the adjustment. Maintaining a balance between cultural patterns is also suggested to help in the long term.