OVERVIEW
International students living away from home in a new country can sometimes feel stress or anxiety from being separated from family and friends. When you start your studies you may also feel worried about your English level, course work, new technology, exams, studying, working and nervous about making friends.
Signs of Stress
Feeling like this is very normal and there are physical signs you can look for if you need help including:
- Headaches
- Feeling sick
- Trouble sleeping
- Lack of concentration
Coping with Stress
Some ideas to help you cope with stress include:
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Positive thinking – remain positive about the situation and remind yourself that are lots of people that care about your health and wellbeing.
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Relax – try and find activities to help you relax and try to do them on a weekly basis.
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Meditation – quietening the mind can help stop the negative thinking and help you feel calmer.
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Exercise – outdoor exercise is always possible in Perth, why not find a team sport you like.
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Healthy diet – a balanced diet with fruit and vegetables will give you good energy.
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Sleep – aim for 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep a night to feel better, and turn the sound on your mobile/laptop to silent.
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Friendship – making friends and talking to them about your feelings.
Get Help
TAFE International Office
If at any time you need help balancing your study, work and life commitments or if you are facing financial or personal issues, your Institute has a range of services and support people to help you during any challenging periods.
For more information you can
talk to a Student Advisor.
Read the Study Tips Guide to help you plan and manage your studies.
Useful links
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Health Advice for International Students in WA
- Healthy WA provides informative video guides to look after your health, including advice on health services and sexual health.
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www.thedesk.org.au
- The Desk is a help service for students provided by Beyond Blue that has free online resources to help you cope with stress and improve your wellbeing including online modules, tools, quizzes and advice.