Moving to a new country is always stressful, especially when you have no friends there and you don’t speak the language. Add on the stress associated with your studies and you may find things quite overwhelming. Luckily, there are some easy and ways to deal with the studying abroad stress that will make your study time in Thailand much more enjoyable!
Stay organized
Being overloaded with assignments, deadlines and exams can be a bad headache for many students. Being organized is the best way to stay on top of everything. Use a planner to allocate time for all your different tasks, so they are completed in advance. Leaving an assignment for the very last night is sure to cause a lot of last minute panicking.
Stay in touch
Being in regular communication with your friends and family back home is a great way to reduce stress. The people that care about the most can give you a lot of support and help talk you through your problems. Feelings of isolation and loneliness can also manifest themselves as stress and staying in touch with those back home is a great way to manage these emotions.
Scheduling weekly online meetings with people is an ideal way to organize your communications, otherwise it may never happen. Remember, take into account the time difference, when selecting a time that will work for both of you.
Get out and be social
You need to keep in touch with people back home, but don’t obsess over it. Take it upon yourself to network within your new locale. Even if you don’t speak the language, many Thai people can speak English. There are also many foreigners living in Thailand and probably you’ll be able to meet them at your university or place of studies. Get out and about to make friends as forming a social circle is a great way to deal with stress and anxiety!
Furthermore, never refuse an invitation when you first arrive in Thailand. This does not mean you should be out partying every night, but you need to use these opportunities as an efficient way to integrate yourself into some social groups. Lastly, join some sport clubs or groups. These are all great ways to meet like minded people and expand your friendships.
Make sure you get enough rest
You need balance in your life. Playing three different sports, while also partying every night is likely to lead to a breakdown. While it’s great to be active and outgoing, it’s also important to schedule periods of rest and relaxation into your lifestyle. Plan time to yourself, to read a book, listen to music, go for a walk, or whatever else helps you unwind is crucial. Also, aim for 7-9 hours of sleep every night.
Take advantage of counseling services
While studying in Thailand you will have access to student health services. If the stress is really becoming overwhelming, then get in touch with them to help. A few sessions with a professional counselor can help you put things into perspective and clear your head of worries.
Make the most out of Thailand
Remember, you are in Thailand, a place where travelers from all over the world flock to for a relaxing holiday. You will discover that the variety of experiences awaiting you are certain to free your mind from worry. Go get a massage, try a new Thai dish, visit some of the cultural sites or take a trip to the beach!
Consider meditation
This technique has been used worldwide by millions to reduce stress and anxiety. When undertaking meditation your heart rate drops, muscles relax, and your breathing becomes slower and deeper. This has a positive effect on your brain chemistry, while also reducing stress hormones throughout your whole body.
If you have never tried meditation before, then why not give it a try? Start with just a few minutes a day and work your way up to greater lengths of time. There are also groups you can join in Thailand, where you can learn the basics from an experienced practitioner.
Have A Great Time Abroad
Your studying abroad time in Thailand will be a unique opportunity to acquire new skills, meet new people, and experience an amazing culture. You don’t want rising stress levels to hold you back, so take these key tips into consideration. Hopefully they will help make your time studying abroad an amazing and enjoyable experience!
Are you interested in studying in Thailand? Bromsgrove International School invites you to get to know them and receive further tips and advice from Punyaa Metharom who has been teaching English and Writing the last eight years.
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