Studying abroad or away from your home university is a thrilling adventure filled with unique experiences and life-changing moments. However, it can also be a challenging journey, and one aspect that should not be overlooked is mental health. The unfamiliar environment, cultural differences, and distance from your support network can sometimes trigger mental health concerns. Explore common mental health triggers during study abroad or away and discover how you can access support when needed.
Common Mental Health Triggers Abroad
- Cultural Adjustment: Adapting to a new culture can be exciting but overwhelming. Language barriers, unfamiliar customs, and social norms can contribute to stress and anxiety.
- Homesickness: Being away from friends and family can lead to feelings of isolation and homesickness, which may intensify existing mental health issues.
- Academic Pressure: The academic workload and expectations might differ from what you’re accustomed to. This can be stressful and may trigger anxiety or depression.
- Loneliness: Building a social network in a new place can be challenging, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
- Financial Concerns: Managing finances in a cross-cultural destination can be stressful and may exacerbate pre-existing financial worries.
Tips for Navigating Mental Health Challenges Abroad
- Stay Connected: Regularly communicate with friends and family back home through video calls, messages, and emails. Their support can be a great comfort.
- Build a Support Network: Make an effort to meet locals and fellow international students. Sharing experiences and challenges with others can create a sense of belonging.
- Learn Coping Strategies: Prior to departure, develop a toolkit of coping strategies for dealing with stress and anxiety. This can include mindfulness practices, journaling, or engaging in hobbies.
- Stay Active and Eat Well: Physical health and mental health are closely connected. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help maintain a positive mindset.
- Explore Local Restaurants: Familiarize yourself with local resources such as counseling services, support groups, and crisis helplines. Knowing where to turn in case of an emergency is crucial.
Accessing Support with Towson
Never forget that you aren’t alone, there are people and resources available to help you. Reach out to the folks on the ground during your program. If you are on a TU faculty-led program, your faculty leader is the first person who should be made aware that you are struggling. They are connected to resources in-country through the provider arranging the logistics for your program, as well as to the TU Study Abroad & Away Office.
If you are studying on a program at another university or through an approved affiliate provider, you have additional resources available to you on-site. Speak with your host coordinator there, and they can connect you to many local resources including counseling services at your host institution. They probably have sessions there that provide a safe space to discuss your concerns, get professional advice, and develop stress-relief strategies.
Your Study Abroad & Away advisor is a valuable resource, as they all have experiences with studying and living abroad. They can help you navigate the stresses of studying abroad or away and can connect you with resources or provide recommendations for managing your anxieties.
Finally, your overseas health insurance requirement is a really important resource. Students attending TU Faculty-Led, TU Exchange, and TU Programs are all enrolled into TU’s policy, which provides access to 24/7 virtual counseling. Students attending approved non-TU programs should review their benefits and inclusions with their program’s insurance to see if this service is provided under their policy.
Studying abroad or away is an enriching experience, but it’s essential to prioritize your mental health throughout the journey. Remember, it’s okay to seek help and support when needed. Towson University, through its Counseling Center and Study Abroad & Away Office, is here to assist you on your path to personal growth and academic success, wherever your studies may take you.
If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact our office at (410) 704-2451, or email studyabroad@towson.edu and peeradvisor@towson.edu. We are located in PY 408, open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm.
You should also go to Towson’s Counseling Center with concerns about your mental health. They can be reached at (410) 704-2512, or counseling@towson.edu. They are located on the second floor of the Health & Counseling Center at Ward and West.