Study Overseas

Staying healthy while studying overseas is critical to enjoying your experience, but it can be difficult. Added to normal health concerns are factors related to the dramatic changes in your environment as a result of living in a foreign country. Increased stress as a result of being away from home and pressure to learn a new language, changes in diet or environmental factors such as heat, cold or pollen, and lack of familiarity with the US healthcare system can weigh down even the healthiest international student. Here are steps you can take to help stay healthy.

1. Manage Stress, Diet and Exercise

Stress, diet and exercise are all closely related, and the beginning of any new exchange program can be an extremely stressful experience. Many health problems for international students are stress-induced. There are pressures of adapting to the new environment and uncertain expectations. No matter where you are, a healthy diet and active lifestyle help to manage stress levels and maintain your immune system. Resist the urge to rely on fast-food restaurants and vending machines, and make sure to exercise daily.

2. Avoid Substance Abuse

Substance abuse (drugs and alcohol) affects many involved in exchange activities. Sometimes substance abuse is associated with the stress of a new environment or the pressures associated with a new language. Sometimes substance abuse develops from the independence or freedom of choice presented by a new living situation. Whatever the reason, if you have a concern about yourself or a friend, it is strongly recommended that you seek help from your student health center or international student office as soon as possible.

3. Stay Connected

Staying in touch with family and friends at home will help you to keep you emotionally balanced and mentally strong. It also lets people who know you well monitor your frame of mind. Email, calling cards, Skype, video conferencing - staying in touch is easier and cheaper than ever, and you should make sure to do it regularly.

4. Understand US Healthcare and Insurance

The healthcare system in the USA is excellent, but it can be complicated and expensive to access. There is no national or socialized health system for international students, so private health insurance is a necessity, just as it is for most Americans. All US colleges and universities require international students to have health insurance, and many provide a health insurance plan available for purchase. In short, you need health insurance while you study in America

5. Understand your insurance policy.

Most schools allow you to "waive" out of the school plan if you show proof of comparable coverage. Many students want to waive the university insurance plan, because it is often overly comprehensive and expensive in relation to an international student's needs and budget. Whether you are required to purchase your university plan, or you find an alternative private insurance plan, you should invest a little effort to read and understand the plan. This will prepare you to access healthcare when you need it and will also help you compare plans as you shop. For instance - does your plan have a network, or can you go to any provider with no financial penalty? Does your plan provide maternity, mental health, and sports coverage? Does the plan allow monthly payments instead of requiring a lump-sum at time of purchase?

6. Use your university health system.

Even if you do not purchase your school's healthcare plan, it will save you money and time if you visit your school's student health center. Often services are available for free or at greatly reduced rates. When you do have to pay, many private student insurance plans will discount the deductible if you use the student health center instead of an off-campus provider. Your school's student health center will be an excellent and affordable resource for the most common health problems that plague international students.

Studying in the USA will be a defining time in your life, full of new people, exciting opportunities and unforgettable experiences. With a little planning, effort and luck, you can stay healthy and have no need for medical care while you are there. Remember, the best medical care is preventing problems in the first place!

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