How can I stay emotionally healthy while adjusting to life in a new country as an Indian student?
Stay emotionally healthy by talking to fellow Indians, keeping in touch with family and friends, and exploring your host culture. Video call family regularly, use university support groups and counselling services, and practise relaxation, mindfulness or meditation when homesickness, stress or anxiety builds up.
Adjusting to a new country can bring homesickness, stress and anxiety as you handle academic challenges, cultural differences and social pressures. A few steady habits can help you stay emotionally healthy.
Habits That Help
| Habit | What to do |
|---|---|
| Stay connected | Talk to fellow Indians and keep in touch with family and friends |
| Family time | Video call family regularly and join family functions virtually |
| Explore culture | Try to enjoy and explore the host country's culture |
| Use university support | Join support groups and use counselling and mental health resources |
| Relax | Practise relaxation exercises, mindfulness or meditation |
Common Challenges to Expect
- Homesickness, stress and anxiety are common during the early adjustment period.
- Academic challenges, cultural differences and social pressures can add to it.
- Universities usually offer counselling services, so look them up early.
My Advice
Do not wait until stress becomes heavy. Find your university's counselling and support services in your first weeks and keep a regular routine for calls home. Asking for help is a normal part of settling in.
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