Health & Safety While Abroad

About

Well-being abroad is important because it helps you stay healthy, safe, and confident so you can fully enjoy and make the most of your international experience. Before you leave, review insurance details, emergency contacts, and simple safety tips—so you can travel with confidence. While abroad, you can refer to this page if something unexpected happens, and there are many Texas A&M resources available to guide you should something arise.

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. Jet lag 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. 

Physical & Mental Health 

 

• You know your health best—listen to your body. If you feel ill, get injured, or experience discomfort, notify your program leader or seek medical care immediately.

• Traveling across time zones? Jet lag is common. Stay hydrated during and after your flight, eat light meals, and give your body time to adjust to new rhythms, climate, and food.

• Use alcohol responsibly, if at all. Drinks abroad may have higher alcohol content than in the U.S., and fatigue, dehydration, or medication can increase risks. Stick to safe environments and company.

• Follow your self-care plan: prioritize sleep, regular meals, and medication. Avoid unhealthy habits that can impact your well-being.

• Stay connected with your mental health provider and support network. Activate telehealth sessions or seek local counseling if needed.

• Engage with your group and local community—watch out for one another. If you’re struggling, reach out to on-site staff, your trip leader, or Education Abroad. Don’t go through it alone.

Reporting Incidents While Abroad

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What is an incident report?

An incident typically occurs where there is an interaction or potential interaction with a hazard that exists in the world. The outcome from that interaction may be nothing (described as a Near Miss) or may result in a loss to People, Environment, Asset or Reputation. The magnitude of the outcome determines whether the incident is classified as significant.

What is a significant incident and how do we respond?

A significant incident is an incident that requires escalation of the initial notification to TAMU Education Abroad / Global Engagement management.   

For the population abroad, significant events can happen in three major areas - Safety, Health and Security, all of which may impact on reputation. For incidents where the EA 24/7 Emergency hotline (+1 979 255 6103)  is utilized or other communications are made, an initial assessment will be made  by the EA on-duty advisor to determine whether to escalate the incident to senior management within the division. This is done through application of a set of escalation criteria.  A response analysis and risk assessment will be conducted, and an immediate action plan initiated to regain control of the situation. The requirement to form a Situation Response Team (SRT) will be made. The SRT composition and formation is determined by the nature and scope of the incident and the urgency and type of actions required, amongst other criteria.  

NOTE: If you are not certain whether to make an incident report or not, always err on the side of reporting it.  

Reporting Student Disciplinary Concerns

As a Texas A&M University Student, you are bound by the Aggie Code of Honor and the Student Code of Conduct. While abroad, you will be an ambassador for the University. We expect that as an Aggie, you will always exhibit superior ethical and moral behavior, especially as a guest in your host country. You have the opportunity and responsibility to represent Texas A&M, Texas, and the United States in a mature and respectful manner.  
 
In the event of a violation of the Student Code of Conduct or the Terms of Participation, Education Abroad will be notified through use of the Education Abroad Incident Reporting Form. Depending on the severity of the violation(s), the responses may include an incident report/verbal warning, an incident report/written warning, and/or an incident report accompanied by a termination report. 

Reporting Student Wellbeing Concerns

• Tell Somebody Report
• Student Assistance Services 
• University Health Services 

Reporting Harassment/Assault

Office of Civil Rights and Title IX

Additional Resources

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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