Coming to live and study in a new environment is very challenging, and it will be essential to manage your life in a way that is healthy, satisfying and productive. Balancing your studies with other activities will allow you to stay healthy and to achieve better academically. If you are under stress or having a difficult time in any way, it is even more important to make sure that you are doing all you can to take care of yourself. Take time to reflect regularly on aspects of your life and how you are coping – physically, socially, emotionally and spiritually.

Looking after your 'physical' self

Keeping fit and healthy is important for your overall well-being and will help you to perform better physically and mentally. It can be a lot of fun too! Try to get at least 20 minutes of exercise every day. Just a walk around the block can make a difference! Or, why not combine exercise and socialising by joining in with UQ Sport activities. UQ Sport offers cheap social and competitive fitness and sporting activities such as dance, aerobics, squash, tennis, bike riding, or swimming. They also have a great gym and swimming pool, and organise weekend and vacation activities. Convince a friend to go with you if you find it hard to get motivated yourself!

Be sure to eat three nutritious meals every day – try not to skip meals. A good breakfast is especially important. As much as possible, avoid too much sugar and junk food and make an effort to eat a balanced diet, with lots of fruit, vegetables and healthy snacks.

Looking after your 'social' self

We are all social beings and need regular human contact to remain happy and healthy. Many international students have mentioned that it is difficult living away from family and friends – your familiar support networks. Of course you need to stay in contact with friends and family at home, however, having people here who you can socialise with and talk to is also mportant to your well being. Some students already know people from their home country or find that they get to meet people in classes and tutorials. However, many students report that their classes are so big, and everyone is so busy, that they never really get to connect with anyone. Get involved in student life on campus through the many clubs and societies, UQ Sport activities or by joining the Aussie International Friendship Program. You may also like to participate in community volunteering by registering with organisations such as  .  

It is also useful for you to maintain hobbies that you used to do at home and which provide relaxation and pleasure. If you are unsure of how to start your hobbies in Australia, or wish to find new activities and are unsure where to go, see an International Student Adviser. 

Looking after your 'emotional' self

Coming and living in a new environment can be a stressful experience, and may mean that you experience a variety of feelings and reactions that you don’t normally experience. Culture Shock is the expected confrontation with the unfamiliar. The impact of culture shock is usually temporary, but if it is prolonged or is affecting your ability to function, you may wish to discuss it with an International Student Adviser.

Studying can also be a stressful experience in itself. It will be important for you to monitor yourself so that you can be aware of your reactions and thereby better manage your situation. Being far from family and friends means that it is sometimes not very easy for you to get support when you need it.

In Australia, there is not a stigma attached to seeking help from an advisor or counsellor. In fact, seeing a professional for assistance is seen as a sign of strength rather than weakness. Mental health issues are likely to confront us all at some point in our lives and you will find support staff to be very understanding. So if you are not feeling like your usual self or if you feel like you are the only one not coping – think about speaking with an International Student Adviser. They can help you get through this difficult time.

Looking after your 'spiritual' self

Setting aside time for reflection, prayer, or other spiritual practices is an essential part of daily life for many people. If you have been used to participating in an organised religion, it will be important for you to find contacts in Brisbane for your religion. For more information on religious groups and activities in the university and in the community, see Worship and Religion.

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