Mental & Physical Health

If you struggle with physical or mental health challenges, take seriously the question of whether this is the best time to study abroad/away. Too often, students and their families are so excited for the opportunity to study abroad/away that they discredit the challenges, the risks to the student’s well-being, and the impact to other participants of the student’s needs.   Meet with your provider before studying abroad/away to create a plan and ensure this is the right time to be away from your support network.  They can help you determine what type of medical care you will need in the host community.  You will want to think about; what type of care is available in the host community? How will you have access to treatment and certain prescriptions?  Where is the nearest pharmacy, counseling service, and medical center?

The process of traveling can be challenging and changes will occur.  This can be very stressful and overwhelming.  There will be airport security screenings, passport and visa controls, immigration and customs to pass through. The time zone may change creating a change in daylight and sleep patterns.  It is important to plan for these events and how you will adapt to changes in the environment.

There will be many cultural differences which can impose challenges both mentally and physically.  Research cultural practices, norms, behaviors, and customs in your host community.  Are their similarities and differences?  How can you prepare for the differences both mentally and physically?

What is available in the United States may not be available in your host community.  For example, it is important to research information about housing, food/dietary needs, and exercise facilities.  What will academics look like?  In some countries your grade is based on a final project and daily homework is nonexistent.  There may be a lack of conveniences (air conditioning, heat, high speed internet, etc.) that you will need to prepare for.

Spending time away from your peers on home campus can be exhilarating and daunting.  There may be pressure to maintain your social relationships at home and away while exploring your own identity and excelling academically.  This can be daunting.  It is important to prepare how you will enter the host community and reflect on your identity at home before you go.

This may be the first separation from family and friends.  Anxiety can increase with your support network far away.  There will be events that might happen that you will be sad to miss.  How will you stay connected while abroad while also practicing independence?  Will you need additional support?

What would your entry into the host community look and feel like?  How would you be perceived?  It is important to research how mental and physical health is perceived in the host community.  Is there an existing stigma surrounding mental and physical health?  It is important to also think about how you will be perceived as a student studying at a U.S. university in your host community.

Many students find they need to adjust their medication while abroad/away.  Talk with your provider in advance about how to do that if needed.  Will medications be accessible?  Remember some medications and treatment are illegal/restricted in other countries.  You may not be able to bring some medications into the country.  Research providers in your host community that will be able to help provide treatment for your mental and physical health.  If you are in need of physical or mental health support, you can utilize counseling services at your host university or visit https://wp.stolaf.edu/timelycare/ for free 24/7 medical and mental telehealth care.  Contact your travel insurance to receive assistance in locating qualified medical care.

Returning to campus and home can be uplifting and challenging.  While away prepare how you will enter your home campus and community.  How has your identity changed?  Reflect on your experiences.  If a student must cancel their participation, remember that the cancellation policy fees apply and can be substantial, rising as the departure date approaches.