How Travel Can Help Students Reset

Travel can create unforgettable experiences and offer incredible opportunities that you may not get at home, or on campus. It allows you the freedom to explore a new place or culture and step outside of your normal structured daily experiences.

Travel isn’t only helpful as a reset; it can be beneficial for your mental health.  If you’re feeling bogged down by the chaotic circumstances of every day life, travel can help you get out of your head and into a greater sense of wellbeing. This is especially valuable for those experiencing the stresses of student life.

If you’re looking for an exciting experience that will help you push the reset button, taking a trip could be the perfect way to truly unwind, unplug and get a much-needed health break.

Switching up your routine

If you’re stuck in repetitive mindset, or work on a set schedule it can create a depressive mindset through slowed cognition. By breaking the routine, you introduce your brain to the prospect of developing new ways of approaching your life, allowing you to process your world and surroundings in a healthier manner.

Is there any better way to shake up your routine than travelling? Going on a trip allows you to take a step back from the stress of classes, exams, and other projects while enveloping you in a broader, more interpersonal classroom that traditional institutions can’t always offer.

A time to reflect

A release from everyday stresses can leave room for better personal development. I’ve known many students who have said that a change of scenery, if only for a few days, can give them the much-needed quality time to evaluate their life’s direction and take stock of their goals.

I consider self-reflection to be a very healthy and beneficial aspect of any person’s mental health journey. A greater awareness of your needs, particularly when it comes to your mental health, is key for creating a positive, transformative mindset that can help you feel more equipped to tackle challenges. After you take the time to reassess your values in a different place, you’ll feel more capable of dealing with your student life back home.

Traveling on a budget

You may be thinking that you’d love to travel and “get away from it all” but you are on a tight budget.  Luckily, there are a lot of options available for students who want to have the experience of taking their studies to a different country.

In one of our previous blogs, I talked about the various ways that you can get the most out of studying abroad. Talk to your Student Assistance Program, and you may find that you have several options available to take courses overseas. This is an excellent way of travelling on a budget, and gives you the advantage of having the best of both worlds.

Travelling doesn’t always need to be about the distance. Even if you can get to a cottage with friends for a weekend, you may find that the time spent away from the regular stresses of school will make you feel more relaxed and prepared to take on future challenges.  With Airbnb and other less expensive vacation rental sites, you may find a destination cheaper than you thought!

For more information on how you can recharge and reset, contact your Student Assistance Program today.

 

 

Maintaining Your Mental Health While Studying Abroad

Studying abroad can be an exciting opportunity for any student. Many universities offer programs for students to study in a different country, providing life-changing experiences while observing different cultures. As wonderful as the opportunity to study abroad may be, it can be difficult to adjust to a different country’s cultural practices. Loneliness, and even depression, can be common when you are away from the people and places that are familiar to you.

While you are studying abroad, you may find that making your mental health a priority becomes increasingly important. I’ve seen many students become withdrawn, and even depressed, from the lack of socialization and familiarity that comes with being away from home. However, try not to let this dissuade you from seizing the adventure of a lifetime. Here are some tips for maintaining your mental health while you’re studying abroad:

Stay in touch

One of the greatest advantages of modern technology is the ability to stay in touch with the people we care about. Apps like Skype and FaceTime allow you to have a face-to-face conversation with the people you love from anywhere in the world. In combination with social media, texting apps (e.g. WhatsApp), and email, there are more ways to stay in touch than ever.

A feeling of connection, especially with friends and family, is an essential part of a person’s mental and physical wellbeing. If you’re having difficulty adjusting to your life abroad, set aside some time per day when you can Skype or FaceTime someone special from home. That simple connection can make all the difference in the sensations of loneliness and isolation that can come from being away from the people and places you love.

Explore the local culture

While you’re away, try to take some time to enjoy all of the excitement that another culture has to offer. Many of the countries available for international exchange are rich in history, and filled with experiences that will become truly unforgettable, if you allow yourself to become surrounded by their vibrant possibilities. Visit a museum or an art gallery, take a walk through a historical park, and of course, don’t forget to enjoy the exquisite culinary experiences offered by your host country.

Although you may be far away from your friends and family, socialization is an essential part of your physical and mental health, particularly when you’re overseas. Make an effort to connect with other people in your school program and explore your host country together. In addition to studying together, you could visit local street festivals or exhibits together or discover a new favourite café. You may even develop some lifelong friendships over the course of your studies!

Use SAP International services

International students might have different mental health needs, depending on their previous experiences with distance travel and their approach towards cultural change. Each person’s experience abroad is going to be unique, and there will be times when you may need support. Student Assistance Programs are available to help international students in need of mental health services. Additional support while you are studying overseas can make a world a difference.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to a Student Assistance Program provider at any time. Help is always available.

Although studying abroad presents some challenges for a lot of students in terms of adjustment, it can be also a rewarding experience that offers opportunities for your future education and employment. Knowing that SAP services are always available to you, should you need them, you can fully enjoy every moment and unique cultural experience that your host country can provide.