University Mental Health Day 2024 is on 14 March, and so it’s a good time to reflect on some of the challenges international students may face, such as homesickness, or culture shock
If you’re missing friends and family back home, or struggling to adapt to a new language and culture, don’t worry! This is a normal part of the studying abroad experience for many international students.
“Homesickness is a common feeling, especially if you’re studying thousands of miles away from home. You don’t need to feel ashamed. Call your family and tell them how much you love and miss them — you will feel better, I promise.”
Albina from Kazakhstan, studying at Simmons University
To support international students experiencing culture shock or homesickness, Kaplan offers a range of mental health support resources. You’ll always be able to get help when living on campus, so don’t be afraid to reach out!
In addition to providing their own mental health support, Kaplan also partners with Student Minds, the UK’s student mental health charity. By working with over 100 UK universities, the organisation helps students to manage issues like homesickness and culture shock.
“Homesickness is a very common feeling for a lot of students who leave home to go to university, regardless of age or previous experiences. Homesickness can be an uncomfortable emotion to experience, however, Student Space is here to help you understand the emotions, and direct you to support at your university if you are struggling.”
Izzy Watkins, Senior Programme Manager, Student Space
What else does Student Minds do?
Student Minds does all kinds of work to support both international and domestic students with their mental health. Their Student Space platform gives you a place to:
- get signposting to support services such as Shout in a way that suit you (e.g., via text, phone, webchat, or email)
- access useful student mental health resources, including a guide to starting university
- find out what support is available at your study destination
- talk to students trained to support you with your mental wellbeing
These resources are available whenever you need them, and cover a range of topics. This includes anxiety over finances, accommodation, deadlines, and specific mental health conditions (e.g., depression, eating disorders, etc.).
Study abroad with Kaplan
If you dream of studying abroad in the UK, Kaplan is here to support you on every step of your journey.
Don’t yet qualify for a UK degree? If so, you can study a degree preparation course. When you pass your course at the required level, you’re guaranteed entry to your chosen university!
While studying with Kaplan, you can make use of our partnership with Student Minds to receive the mental health support you need. We will help you find the help you’re looking for, and answer any queries you may have. You can also always reach out to on-campus support staff, who are available 24 hours a day.
If you have any questions, please get in touch with us and an Education Advisor will be happy to explore your options with you.
