University Mental Health & Wellbeing Day: How to cope when studying abroad

University can be difficult, which is exactly the reason University Mental Health Day is taking place on 3 March. The event focuses on promoting mental health in higher education institutions and reminds students about all the ways they can seek help if they’re feeling depressed while at university.

 

A recent study found that 78% of students admitted to experiencing mental health problems over the past 12 months. The research, conducted by the National Union of Students in the UK, surveyed 1,093 university students and revealed that 33% of them have had suicidal thoughts. Across the Atlantic, a study by the Center for Collegiate Mental Health at Penn State University in the US found that between 2009 and 2015, there was an increase in students reporting symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Moving away from home and starting university is challenging. While lots of students thrive in the new environment and cope well throughout their time at college, others can feel overwhelmed by the experience. Neither reaction is wrong.

To mark University Mental Health & Wellbeing Day, Student.com spoke to a leading university counsellor, as well as three international students and collected some amazing advice for all students about fitting in at university, especially when studying abroad.

Read the full article here or find out the 7 Places to Go if You’re Feeling Down at University.