You have unpacked your bags, set up your room, gone to all the fresher’s events, and are in the process of settling into university life. But something seems missing—almost a sort of emptiness. Don’t worry; this is not just you. Most international students that fly miles away from their home to pursue an education abroad at some point feel that things are getting ahead of them, or as if they aren’t able to cope up. And today’s segment explores the different options available to you or someone close to who is going through a tough time.
While COVID-19 has wreaked havoc in all of our lives, there has been a lot that we have learnt throughout this period, which we do not acknowledge. One of the most useful skills we have acquired is to efficiently use technology to continue working from home and connecting with our friends. At university, whether it be Facetime or Whatsapp calling, video-calling is something that can cheer you up on your worst days! A call to your best friend, sibling or your parents, will tend to freshen you up like nothing else. Sometimes, we do not realise but our friends and family can understand our problems, and come up with solutions, or help us reach a solution. And maybe sometimes, they might not be able to help us reach a solution, but the will definitely try to take your mind off things!
Sometimes you might feel quite lonely, and you need someone else to talk to. Most universities provide a tonne of facilities for students to help with such issues. There will be special mental-health helplines, sometimes open 24×7, which you can call to just have a chat with a stranger and unload your burdens. If that doesn’t solve your problems, you can even contact your University’s counselling office, which will surely help you out with some professional guidance.
It is always imperative to keep in mind that help is never too far away! It can be especially difficult to reach out for many students who may feel embarrassed to talk about their personal issues. This is further propagated by the stigma surrounding mental health. While it is not enough to tell someone suffering from such an issue to simply visit the psychiatrist, it can be helpful to guide them to the right resources. Associations such as the Anxiety and Depression Society of America, aim to help people out by providing the right resources.
Finally, always remember, you are never alone! As the quote goes, “Help is given to those who ask for it !”
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