Studying abroad can be a difficult adjustment for everybody. Adjusting to a new location, a new culture, and even a new time zone can be overwhelming. Throughout the last few years, mental illness has become a common conversation in our school environments, the media, and so much more. Struggling with mental health is nothing to be ashamed of, and it is important to attend to your needs no matter the circumstance. This is no different, and arguably even more necessary, when studying abroad. As a psychology student who also struggles with mental illness, I thought it would be important to provide my top 3 tips that have helped me while spending my time in Sorrento, Italy, while studying abroad for the Summer 3 (10 week) program.
Keeping in Contact
Keeping in contact with your loved ones is extremely important. Setting aside some time to call my friends and family has helped me tremendously, even if that is just five minutes a day. Making new friends and doing a lot of different exciting activities can make it feel like you do not have time throughout the day to call anyone back at home, but I can assure you, making this time for yourself can be very beneficial, especially during the adjustment period when you first arrive. Having a designated time each day to call someone provides comfort, and structure to put your mind at ease.
Alone Time
As said prior, you’re going to be making tons of new friends and participating in lots of new and fun experiences, it can almost feel impossible to be by yourself. Setting aside some time to reflect and regroup is very important, both at home and abroad. This can prevent social burnout and becoming overwhelmed. Some pivotal ways that I have spent this alone time is doing the things I know will take my undivided attention, so I am not ruminating on things I could be doing instead. This includes journaling, any form of art like drawing or painting, spending a day alone at the beach reading, or even just watching an episode of a comfort TV show.
Staying Active
As I’m sure you already know, getting your body moving is very important for your brain. It stimulates proper neurotransmitter release, produces endorphins, and even improves your memory. It is specifically beneficial for those who suffer with anxiety disorders, depression, and attention deficit disorder. Maintaining this while abroad is important, and it can also provide a sense of stability, structure, and can feel very rewarding. This can be as simple as going for a walk, doing a guided workout video in your room, or participating in the university’s “Sunset Yoga” classes. For those who prefer lifting and machines, there is the gym “Ulysse” located in Sorrento, and it has a discount for Sant’Anna students, and it has everything you need. I have personally had a great experience there, and it is a very relaxed environment, I did not feel intimidated or overwhelmed whenever working out. You can find more information about different facilities on the Sant’Anna app.
Overall, it is important to prioritize yourself in a time like studying abroad. Even though it can feel difficult at times, having some of these tips in your back pocket can help you be prepared for whatever emotions or situations are thrown at you. Sant’Anna also has many resources to alieve you as well. There are psychologists on campus for you to talk to anytime you need, and do not hesitate to reach out to them if you feel it is needed. They want you to be as comfortable and healthy as you can be. And please remember, mental illness does not define you or your experiences, you are much stronger than you think!
Written by: Anonymous Student from Summer 2026 SAI Sorrento
