Alve: The Unseen Side of Studying Abroad — and How We Learn to Cope

For many international students, the emotional impact of living abroad may not appear immediately. Instead, it can develop gradually through feelings of loneliness, homesickness, and the challenge of adapting to a new environment.

Living alone in a foreign country might make even small moments feel unfamiliar. Some days require more effort than others, and routines that once felt comforting may take time to rebuild. These experiences are common yet often unseen and they are a natural part of adjusting to life abroad.

Practical Tips for Managing Mental Health Abroad

When I moved to Sweden, these feelings became more noticeable during my first autumn. One of the major factors that affected my mental well-being was the change in daylight. At the beginning of the semester, the days were long and the sun remained visible until late in the evening. However, as winter approached, daylight became increasingly limited, with darkness setting in as early as mid-afternoon. This sudden reduction in sunlight can have a strong effect on the human brain, influencing mood, energy levels, and motivation — especially for someone like me coming from a sunnier climate.

During this time, I believed that staying constantly busy with work and studies would help me avoid negative thoughts. While having structure and routine is important, I gradually realised that ignoring emotional struggles does not resolve them and it cannot always be overcome through productivity alone.

From my experience, one of the most effective ways to cope is to talk openly about feelings. Sharing concerns with friends, classmates, or trusted individuals helps reduce the emotional burden. Meeting new people, building connections, and focusing on the present rather than what was left behind can make a meaningful difference. Studying abroad is not about measuring what we have lost, but about recognising what we still have and how we choose to move forward.

Maintaining regular contact with family is also essential. Even when we find it difficult to express our emotions, family members often provide reassurance and emotional stability, despite the physical distance. Along with this, creating a balanced daily routine — planning time for study, work, rest, and small moments of enjoyment — can strongly support both mental and physical well-being.

For those who need professional support, Örebro University offers the Student Health Centre, which provides guidance and mental health support to students. The centre is available whenever support is needed, and seeking help is both encouraged and respected. Reaching out for professional assistance is a responsible and positive step toward well-being.

Life itself is a blessing, and during this journey abroad we should always look out for one another. Offering support costs nothing, yet even small acts of kindness and understanding can make a meaningful difference and help make someone’s life a little better.