Feeling happy
Studying overseas is a brave and positive step for you and your future. The academic, social, cultural and language skills you gain should help you to become stronger, more capable and successful, wherever you are and whatever you do in the future.
By studying overseas, you are putting yourself outside of your comfort zone and dealing with a huge amount of change in your life. It is therefore normal to feel all kinds of emotions during this time. Sometimes you might feel very excited and happy. Other times you may feel less positive emotions like sadness or loneliness. Sometimes you may just find yourself feeling a bit down, or “blue”.
This is a natural part of this huge adventure you are on! If you are feeling this way, make sure that you go and speak to your International Student Advisor, Teacher or Counsellor. They can give you reassurance and support, and talk with you about any particular issues that may be troubling you.
If the feelings continue or get worse, or if you find you can’t sleep, are eating too much or too little, getting headaches or feeling sick, or if you are not feeling well in any other way, you can also see a Doctor. Doctors in Australia are trained to help people who are feeling sad or lonely or down, as well as people who are physically ill. Your doctor can help you feel physically healthy again, and if necessary, refer you to a counsellor or other person who can work with you to make you feel better.
Also check out “Reachout”, a website designed for students and young people dealing with life’s big issues at www.reachout.com.au. (external site)
Last updated 19 October 2007
Other languages