Rhealyn
What’s the best way to handle demotivation and stress while studying abroad?
#foreigncountry #education #college
2 answers
Michelle O'Connell, CPA auditrice
Michelle’s Answer
Hi Rhealyn, This is a very good question. I think everyone deals with stress in a different ways. For me, when my school or work got too busy or stressful, I have a list of activities I enjoyed doing and I would pick and do one to change my mind set (for example: going for a run). I think everyone gets stressed and tired, the difference is how you manage this. Everyone needs to find their own solution that helps them and know when to talk about it with family and close friends.
As for motivation, I think that when you are well surrounded by friends, it is easier to find motivation. You can make new friends and meet people through clubs and organized activities. Remember the hardest part is showing up the first time. I hope this helps.
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Treasa Deepa
Treasa’s Answer
Build your local support network or swap stories with other international students sharing similar experiences
2. Reach out to friends, family and/or personal support networks
Talk to someone close and trusted. Try:
Scheduling weekly/monthly Skype sessions with family or friends
Traveling and sending postcards back home
Writing emails or letters
Switching off social media for a while
Joining student communities
Keeping a busy schedule
3. Exercise regularly, eat healthy and look after yourself
Poor eating habits and sleep deprivation is also known to trigger stress. So, eat nutritious meals and rest well. Try cooking your meals at home instead of eating out often or binging on takeaway food. Exercise improves both physical and mental health. Ensure that you stay active by going for a walk/run, swim or working out in the gym. Meditation, yoga and deep breathing exercises can also help you stay calm and composed.
4. Get to know your new city
Make an effort to get to know your new surroundings and what’s happening in your host city. Familiarising yourself will help you feel more connected and less like an outsider. If you were involved in a club/church/group back home, then find out what your new neighbourhood has to offer.
7. Vent and express your feelings
If you are too shy to express your feeling with anyone, start keeping a journal and vent it all out. You may write poems, stories or even indulge in creative art forms like painting to express yourself.
Hope this helps