Below are tips and resources on managing the physical and mental health aspects of your international experience. These are applicable to any destination. 

Physical Health

Before Departure 

• Review the itinerary and the proposed activities well in advance. Many programs involve long walks or require physical fitness for other activities. 
• If you need accommodations, do contact the organizers well in advance, so that they confirm what can be done to support you in the foreign location. What is available in the U.S. may not be possible or the norm in other countries, and researching options will take time. Visit Mobility International USA for resources. 
• Discuss your travel plans with your physician or visit Texas A&M University Health Services https://uhs.tamu.edu/index.html to discuss preparation and potential vaccinations. It is also a good idea to verify that your standard vaccines are up to date (e.g., Tetanus shot, Hepatitis A). 
• Complete your routine wellness checkups (medical, dental, vision, and/or specialist) before departure. 
• If taking prescription medication, verify its legality in host destination(s) and request supply for the duration of your experience. Medication and supplies should be packed in their original containers with the official pharmacy label and transported in carry-on luggage only. 

While Abroad 

• You are the best person to gauge how you are feeling health wise. If you fall ill, get injured, or experience discomfort, share this information with your program leaders or a medical professional without delay. 
• If you have traveled through different time zones, you may experience jetlag. Keep hydrated in-flight and upon arrival. Eat lightly for several days until your system adjusts to changes in circadian rhythm, climate, food, and water. 
• Avoid consumption of alcohol or use moderation in safe environments and company. In many countries, alcoholic beverages have a higher alcohol content than in the U.S. Fatigue, dehydration, and use of prescription medication can lead to unsafe behaviors and experiences. 

Mental Health

Even students with no pre-existing mental health conditions undergo stress when traveling, especially when living in an environment where everything is new. If you already experience mental health challenges in the U.S., you will likely experience those while abroad. This does not mean that you cannot participate in the experience, but planning ahead is key to ensuring that you have a successful experience.

Program Selection

Research the host destinations (e.g., cultural practices, available medical resources). Review the documentation provided by your host institution or provider and research the health support available in the foreign location. Visit the program insurance provider section of the website for information on coverage. 

If you have a medical professional who supports you with mental health care, you may wish to discuss the type of program and the duration of the international experience to ensure this is the right fit and the right time for you. 

Before Departure 

• Discuss your travel plans with your therapist or doctor to address concerns and coping techniques. 
• Make sure that your medications are allowed in the host country and travel with the original containers and medical documentation in your carry-on. 
• Talk to your support system to determine a communication plan while you are away. 
• We encourage you to disclose your support needs to Education Abroad, a program leader, and/or on-site support staff. 
• If you are registered with Disability Resources and using academic accommodations, please share a copy of the accommodation letter with those coordinating the program. 
• Download the TELUS Health Student Support App to access additional mental health resources and remote professional counselors 24/7. Your insurance plan may also offer additional telehealth options. 

While Abroad

• Follow your self-care plan. Avoid unhealthy behaviors such as drinking alcohol, lack of sleep, skipped meals, and irregular medication intake. 
• Stay in touch with your mental health provider and support network. Activate telehealth sessions or see a therapist, if needed. 
• Participate in activities and opportunities to engage with locals and the group you are traveling with. Watch out for one another. 
• Monitor yourself and if you are struggling, ask the on-site staff/trip. leader/Education Abroad for assistance. Don’t struggle alone. 

Culture Shock

Culture shock is a normal part of study abroad, and it is a reaction to living in an unfamiliar environment, from landscape, language, culture, to values, customs, and new people. Symptoms of culture shock can include homesickness, feeling out of place, irritability, depression, or sadness. Travelers will typically go through four phases, from the ‘honeymoon’ phase to frustration, adaptation, and acceptance. 

Managing culture shock

• Learn as much as you can about the host culture. Do not isolate yourself. 
• Get to know others on your program and in your host location. 
• Recognize your limits and allow time for yourself. Keep a journal. 
• Eat and get enough sleep. Jetlag and exhaustion can impact moods. 
• Stay consistent with your medication routine. 
• Be mindful of your alcohol consumption. 
• Ask for help when needed – your program leader, on-site staff, and Education Abroad Advisor are here to support you throughout the international experience and upon return. 

Additional Resources 

Texas A&M University Health Services 

• Schedule a travel consultation appointment
• Travel Safety Information 
• Mental Health Resources 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Traveler’s Health 

Mobility International USA 

• Medications When Traveling Internationally 
• Preparations for Traveling with a Mental Health Condition 

U.S. Department of State 

• Your Health Abroad - Traveling Smartly with Prescription Medications 
• Traveler’s Checklist 
• Adjusting to a New Culture