Mental health is a complex topic, with many underlying factors as well as varying effects on one’s life. Even if you’ve never had mental health concerns before, that can change while you’re abroad. Anxiety, depression, mood swings, and more can be brought on or exacerbated by not only culture shock, but also time zone changes and jet lag, separation from your family and friends, spending time alone, etc. 

It is important to remember that your mental health is just as important as your physical health - pay close attention to it while studying abroad! Recognizing that you’re struggling is the first step in taking care of yourself. Symptoms can present themselves in the form of increased irritability, heightened fear, homesickness, withdrawal, changes in eating habits, changes in sleep (increase or decrease), and more.

It is also important to understand that studying abroad does not mean taking a vacation from your mental health. You are the same person abroad - with the same background, life experiences, and health conditions - that you are in the U.S, and you are likely to face the same mental health concerns there that you do at home. Acknowledging this and planning for it in advance is the best thing you can do to be mentally, emotionally, and physically prepared for your program.

What To Do if You Need Mental Health Help While Abroad

If you do experience serious difficulties while you're abroad, reach out to your program director or Duke OGHS staff (oghs@duke.edu). Together, we can create a plan for moving forward, which may include connecting you with a local mental health professional.  

Students who have been approved to study outside of the United States on a Duke-Administered or Duke-Approved program are eligible to receive many services from ISOS free of charge, including access to a 24/7-network of ISOS specialists, who can help provide security advice and medical referrals around the world.

ISOS partners with Workplace Option (WPO) to make telephonic or video counseling available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. The first five counseling sessions are free. Any subsequent visits will need to be covered by standard health insurance. All calls are answered live by counselors. Anyone, student, parent, or program staff, can initiate this benefit by opening a case with ISOS.

Helping a Friend

If you're ever in a situation where you think a friend may be in danger, contact your program director or local emergency services. 

The following signs may indicate that a friend is having a mental health issue:

  • Abrupt changes in behavior
  • Isolation from others
  • Noticeable changes in mood, such as depression, apathy, or irritability
  • Poor attendance in classes
  • Sudden outbursts of anger
  • Attention/memory difficulties
  • Alcohol/drug misuse or abuse
  • Marked change in personal hygiene/appearance
  • Inappropriate crying
  • Bizarre statements or behavior
  • Suicidal statements 

How to help a friend in distress:

  • Listen carefully.
  • Demonstrate concern and interest.
  • Avoid criticizing or sounding judgmental.
  • Do not ask too many questions.
  • Resist the urge to diagnose or label.
  • Suggest your friend speak with a local program director or Duke OGHS staff (oghs@duke.edu).
  • Tell your local program director and Duke OGHS staff (oghs@duke.edu) if you are concerned that your friend is at risk of harming themself or others.

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