Mental Health, Stress, and Culture Shock

Traveling abroad can be stressful. You may become overwhelmed by the number of important decisions you need to make about things at home you understand and take for granted. Which taxis are safest? How do I make a doctor’s appointment? Can I purchase Tylenol at the local pharmacy? If I go to the doctor, will I understand the medical vocabulary or explanations in a foreign language?

On top of this, you will be dealing with everyday homesickness and culture shock. These challenges can add up and make you feel more anxious than normal. To combat this stress, make healthy decisions: eat heathy, exercise daily (even walking and climbing stairs count), and get plenty of sleep.

If you are prone to mental health concerns, coping with new situations and challenges may become overwhelming. To receive real-time mental health care from anywhere, you should download and register with the Tele-Health service provided by your international health insurance.

Culture Shock

Culture shock is considered a natural (and perhaps even necessary) part of the adjustment process to living abroad. Symptoms can include depression, sleeping difficulties, homesickness, trouble concentrating, an urge to isolate yourself, or excessive irritation with your host culture.

For most students, these symptoms (which are normal) may come and go and last only a short time.

Here are some techniques that can be used to combat culture shock symptoms:

• Learn as much as possible about your host culture. If you have questions about cultural norms, ask a host national to explain what is taking place and why.

• Keep yourself busy doing things you enjoy. When you have free time, visit museums, go to movies, and tour local areas of interest.

• Journal about all you are experiencing and learning. Make your journal more than a diary by sharing more in depth your perspectives on all you are experiencing.

• Stay connected with your family and friends at home. Letters, phone calls, email or social media contact will make you feel less isolated. Just remember to limit contact so that you can take advantage of your host culture.

Managing Mental Health Conditions

Before traveling, create a plan with your mental health care provider to manage your condition while abroad, including determining what types of continuing treatment (counseling, medications, etc.) you will need to continue while on your study abroad program.

Additionally, you can talk to your study abroad advisor about what health services are available to you in your host country. You also want to research the mental health culture and attitudes of your destination. Learn how mental illnesses are viewed and treated so that you are aware of the support you can expect.

Finally, develop a support system and action plan so that you can receive the help you need while overseas.