10 Tips for Building a Healthy Student Life Abroad

Studying abroad is an incredible experience that offers numerous opportunities for personal and academic growth. However, to make the most of your student life, it's crucial to take care of your health and well-being. Understandably, it’s not always easy to stay on top of your health, both physically and mentally, when you are in a foreign country. Here are ten tips to help you build a vibrant and balanced student life while pursuing your studies overseas.

1. Stay Active

Needless to say, engaging in regular physical activity is essential for your overall well-being. The good news is that staying active usually comes at little expense. You can often get student discounts when joining a local gym, or you can join a sports club at your university. Alternatively, outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, or even just walking are all great exercises that don't require any cost. Building a fitness routine will not only improve your physical health, but also boost your energy levels, reduce stress, and enhance your mood, helping you thrive in your student life.

2. Stay Hydrated

Often neglected, proper hydration is a vital aspect for your overall good health, particularly when you are trying to maintian an active lifestyle. It is recommended that you carry a reusable water bottle with you, which can usually be found as freebies given away at your university's welcome fairs. Aim to drink at least 8 cups (64 ounces) of water, every day. Staying hydrated will help regulate your body temperature, improve digestion, increase focus, and maintain healthy skin.

3. Get Sufficient Sleep

It's easy to get carried away by the excitement of studying abroad, or you may have to pull an all-nighter to meet a deadline or study for an exam. However, once the thrill is over and the stress subsides, it's important to establish a regular sleep schedule in your daily student life. Adequate sleep is essential for cognitive function, memory retention, and overall health. Try to aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night, and avoid excessive screen time before bed as it can disrupt your sleep patterns.

4. Eat Well

Maintaining a balanced diet is essential for providing adequate fuel to your body and brain. However, it’s not easy to always make wise decisions about what to put inside your body. You should make sure to include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your meals. Avoid consuming excessive amounts of fast food, sugary snacks, and processed foods. Instead, explore local markets and grocery stores to find fresh, nutritious ingredients to cook your meals. This way, you can not only eat better but also save a lot of money that you would otherwise spend on eating out or ordering takeaway.

5. Stay Vaccinated

Before travelling to a new country, make sure that you have received all necessary vaccinations. It is advisable to stay informed about any additional vaccines or health precautions recommended for your study abroad destination. To ensure good health and prevent potential illnesses during your student life, you may consider visiting a travel clinic or consulting your healthcare provider to verify that you have the required vaccinations.

6. Manage Stress

Studying in a foreign country can be an overwhelming and daunting experience at times. It's crucial to have effective stress management techniques in place to help you navigate the challenges of student life. Practice deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga which can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and enough sleep as mentioned above can also minimise stress.

7. Take Breaks

Avoid studying for long hours without breaks. Incorporate short breaks into your study routine to rest your mind and prevent burnout. Use this time to stretch, take a short walk, or engage in a hobby or activity that you enjoy. Taking breaks will improve your focus and productivity, and is a key to building a balanced student life.

8. Seek Social Support

Establishing a support network in your host country is crucial to maintain your mental well-being. You can find your community by connecting with fellow students, joining local clubs or organisations, or participating in social activities. Doing so will help you break out of a rut, build meaningful relationships, and receive support whenever necessary.

9. Seek professional support

Let’s be realistic. Your student life abroad is not always going to be glamorous; in fact, it can come with its own set of difficulties. If you find yourself struggling, don’t feel shy or ashamed to reach out for professional help. Therapy is a great way to check in with your mental health, but it can also be pricey. Your universities will offer a range of free mental health and wellbeing services, where you can talk with a professional in a comfortable and non-judgmental space. So, make sure to take advantage of these resources whenever you need them.

10. Prioritise Self-Care

Self-care takes on many forms. The above tips are all examples of self-care. It's important to set aside time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax. Whether it's reading, listening to music, practising a hobby, or taking leisurely walks, engaging in self-care contributes to your well-being and maximises your overall experience of student life.

Studying abroad can open up many opportunities for growth and self-discovery. By following these ten tips, you can create a healthy student life while studying in a foreign country. If you're interested in studying abroad, register your interest on UAPP now. We'll not only guide you through the application and admissions process but also provide practical advice on how to manage your life abroad!