Study Ireland – Stories & Guides from International Students

In this advice blog, Crystal Obiajulu, a MSc in Public Health student from Nigeria, offers her advice for good mental health to international students. 

Tip One: Communicate Boundaries 

Settling into a new environment and meeting with new people can be difficult but it becomes more stressful when you find yourself uncomfortable with something and having to live with it because you’re not willing to speak up. Creating and sharing boundaries might be hard to do but it will help you keep your hair in the long run, especially if you live with roommates or you’re in a situation where you must constantly be around people to get work done.  

Tip Two: Invest in a comfy room 

Your room is your sanctuary, making it as comfortable as you can be a major game changer for your whole wellbeing. You don’t need any too pricey to achieve this, all you need are cosy sheets, decorations that show your vibe, a little furnishing if you must like cushions, pleasant scents, and a plant or two (if that’s your thing). Making your room comfy will create a space where you can come back to unwind and relax after a long day or just feel more yourself. 

Tip Three: Have a playlist for every occasion 

You need a playlist for everything (it’s a personal choice), having a playlist can be a good way to destress when you’re feeling overwhelmed or boost your mood and motivate you when you’re feeling down. Whether you’re reading, exercising, resting or simply vibing, a playlist is a great way to set the mood. So, pick out songs you like and toss them into a playlist that matches your mood – it’s like crafting your own mini soundtrack (I recommend Taylor Swift). 

Tip Four: Have a change of scenery  

Staying in the same place can give you a sense of familiarity and safety but you need a change of scenery to mentally refresh and open yourself to making new memories. Go exploring, whether it be the culture or environment to earn yourself new experiences and knowledge. You also have a change scenery by treating yourself to experiences like watching a movie, going to a concert, going shopping, or simply taking a walk around campus. 

Tip Five: Find people like you 

Making friends people can be hard when you move to a new country, especially when your reality is that you prefer to stay in your own company or are shy. Join clubs or societies related to the things you’re interested in to find people like you. Socialising doesn’t feel like a chore when you have common interests with the people you’re socializing with, so joining clubs or societies makes it easier to find people with the same interests.. 

Tip Six: Cultivate Hobbies and Interests 

Try new things to create new hobbies and interests for yourself. Not only can this be a form a mental therapy for you, but it can also help you discover new strengths that you aware you had. Having a hobby gives you a form of escape and relaxation which will be beneficial to soothing your mind. It will also give you something can proudly share and be passionate about. 

Tip Seven: Go out of your comfort zone occasionally 

Feeling safe and comfortable is important and necessary to having a healthy mental health but breaking routines, overcoming fears and trying new things can open a whole new door to opportunities for growth and achievements. Try something new now and then to learn something new about yourself and the people around you. Not only will you build stronger relationships this way, but you will also boost your self-confidence.