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Posted March 14, 2022
6 ways to look after your mental health while studying abroad
University life often comes with a mixed bag of emotions where on some days, you will be buzzing with excitement, and on other days, you might be worried about your upcoming tests and exams.
However, if you plan to study abroad, your negative emotions can take a toll on your mental health more, resulting in bouts of homesickness, culture shock, stress and anxiety. In such circumstances, it becomes necessary to take care and maintain your wellbeing to make the most out of your study abroad experience.
We understand living away from your loved ones can be challenging initially, but there are certain things that you can practise in your everyday life to adapt to your new lifestyle quickly. This article looks at six effective ways you can look after your mental health and wellbeing while studying overseas – so without further ado, let’s hop right into it!
1. Meditate
In the continuous hustle and bustle of everyday life, incorporating meditation in your daily routine will provide you with inner peace, lower your stress levels, improve your focus and let you connect better with yourself. Mediation has many benefits and you don’t necessarily have to join a professional class to get started. In fact, you can practise it right away in your student housing in London or student accommodation in Hatfield by following these steps:
- Choose a specific time to practise it, either first thing in the morning or the last thing before going to bed.
- Find the quietest corner in your student home, take out your yoga mat and spread it onto the floor.
- Comfortably sit on the mat with your legs crossed and with a straight back posture.
- Gently close your eyes and begin focussing on your breathing as you inhale and exhale.
- Continue the process for as long as you like, and once you are done, gently lift your gaze. Voila!
2. Maintain contact with family and friends
Nothing gives you more peace than having a heart-to-heart conversation with loved ones. And luckily, we live in such times where no amount of distance can stop you from remaining in contact with your family and friends. So, whenever you’re feeling stressed, upset or simply missing your close ones back home, reach out to them via text, phone or video call. It will not only help relieve your worries but also boost your self-confidence and self-worth!
3. Indulge in physical activities
Physical activities actively stimulate the production of endorphins: the chemicals in the brain that serve as the body’s natural painkillers, thus improving your overall mood. Whether you want to join a gym, learn a new dance form like ballet, enrol in a yoga class or participate in your university’s football team, you must make a habit of staying active by indulging in physical activities regularly. It will boost your mental health and increase your energy levels and keep you fit and healthy.
4. Start journaling
A student’s life is filled with many ups and downs. Every now and then, you experience something that can elevate your stress and anxiety levels, such as colliding with a good friend or simply having a rough day at your university. It can be too overwhelming to handle sometimes and that’s when you rely on the good old habit of journaling. Journaling – or keeping a diary – is an excellent way to keep your emotions under control and improve your overall mental wellbeing. All you ought to do is write your thoughts and feelings down on a piece of paper or in a document on your smartphone or laptop to understand them clearly. It not only helps in stress management but also in analysing your innermost fears, deepest thoughts and repressed emotions. Fix a stipulated time to journal every day in your private student accommodation in Glasgow, preferably before going to bed. Take out your diary and pen and start writing about everything you are feeling. Don’t worry about writing in a proper structure or with correct grammar. It is your personal space, so let your ideas and words flow freely.
5. Socialise more
When you are living many miles away from home, that friends that you will make in your host country will act as your support network for you. They will guide and help you in every small or big problem related to both your personal and professional life. In your initial days at your university, you might feel hesitant to approach strangers, but remember, you are not alone! Many international students like you will be looking for someone to break the ice with. So be confident and approach them first; you never know you might end up making friends for life!
Furthermore, socialising improves your mental and emotional health, boosts your confidence and self-esteem, increases your sense of happiness and staves off feelings of loneliness.
6. Seek professional help
If you experience symptoms of stress and anxiety for a prolonged period, it is advisable to reach out for professional help. You can contact your university and enquire about the mental health support they provide to international students. Besides, you can schedule an appointment with a local counsellor or therapist. Remember, it is okay to ask for professional help, it is a crucial step towards your healing journey.
Do you want help finding a student home?
amber assists millions of students all over the world by providing the best and most affordable options for booking accommodation. We are upgraded with the latest Covid-19 policies and would be more than happy to help you search for your ideal home at your desired location.
Author: Harshita Anand is a postgraduate in English Journalism and a graduate in Hotel Management. She has worked in different industries and with people from all walks of life. Her well-rounded experience prompted her to constantly seek knowledge about the world and write passionately about it.
amber is one of many potential private accommodation options for international postgraduate students. Other private student accommodation options are available and Postgrad.com advises you to research all your options thoroughly before making such a commitment. Postgrad Solutions accepts no responsibility for your choice of student accommodation and does not endorse or support amber.
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