Studying in another country is an exciting experience for a lot of people. You get to meet new friends, experience another culture, and expand your knowledge. But at the same time, you also have to adjust to a new life, adjust to a different climate, eat unfamiliar food, maybe enter into a different lifestyle, and adjust to your school workload. Because of those reasons, it is easy to neglect your health.
Here are some tips and reminders to stay healthy while studying and adjusting to a new life abroad.
Take Care of Your Body
Adjusting to a new country and lifestyle may take a lot of your time and energy, but it does not mean you should neglect to take care of your body. In fact, taking care of your health can help you get more energy to go through your days while studying abroad.
Getting enough sleep is something that many students disregard, especially for those who want to enjoy another country’s nightlife. Although it is a good way to socialize and meet new people, it should not be done every day. Maybe save it for special events. However, not only is it expensive, but it is also not good for your body. A complete 8 hours of sleep a day, or naps in between studies are enough to get you through a day and help with concentration for class.
Getting enough exercise doesn’t necessarily mean a gym membership. Not only is it expensive, but sometimes it is inconvenient. A simple jog in the park in the morning or the evening is enough. Studies have shown that getting enough exercise helps reduce stress.
Eat the right food and drink plenty of water regularly. Do not skip meals and ensure you have a balanced diet. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables, and take vitamins to help boost your immune system, which is crucial when you have to adjust to a new place and climate. Tap water is safe to drink in Ireland, so you won’t have any problems drinking water regularly.
Have good hygiene habits such as washing your hands regularly, taking a shower every day, regularly brushing your teeth, covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and putting away tissues into a bin after using. Having a good hygiene habit is a good way to protect yourself, and others from getting sick.
Take Care of Your Mental Health
Staying healthy also includes taking care of your mental health. Although studying abroad is generally a positive experience for many, there are still times when students face challenges, resulting in stress affecting their mental well-being. All the things that you do to take care of your body—exercising, taking a rest, eating well—are also good ways to protect your mental health. However, if things get challenging to a point where you are getting distracted from your studies, it is best to ask for help.
Talk to family and friends because sometimes, something as simple as talking it out is enough to alleviate stress. You can connect to your family and friends back home through various online services such as Skype, or you can talk to your friends in your institutions.
Call 24/7 organizations such as the Samaritans or text 50808 if you don’t have anyone to talk to. Both organizations can be accessed 24 hours a day providing immediate support to people undergoing a mental or emotional crisis.
Ask for help from your institution. Most institutions offer confidential counseling services for their students for free. If you are feeling stressed because of studying, feeling lonely, or having other problems, feel free to use this service.
Overall, aside from your grades, you should also look after your own body and mental wellbeing. This way, you can stay healthy while finishing your degree.
Read more about tips and know-hows on living and studying and Ireland. If you want to learn how you can start working part-time in the country, check out our article on How Do You Start Working Part-time in Ireland?
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