May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and at ISA, we know that mental well-being is essential for everyone. Just like physical health, it’s an ongoing, deeply personal journey—especially while traveling and studying abroad. You might experience shifts in how you feel, and that’s completely normal.
In this blog, ISA alumni share their stories and strategies for staying mentally strong while overseas. Their experiences offer thoughtful, encouraging insights to help you explore what works best for your own well-being. As you prepare for your journey, we invite you to take a little time to reflect on what keeps you grounded and feeling your best, so you can fully embrace your experience with confidence and clarity.
Here’s what our alumni had to say about navigating their mental health abroad!
Sammi R. | Seville, Spain
Rutgers University
“Mental health while abroad can be challenging for some, while others may seem to adapt seamlessly to a new culture, new people, and a new way of life. However, it’s important to know that even if you’re struggling while abroad or feeling overwhelmed by a drastic change in scenery, away from the comforts of what you’re normally surrounded by, reaching out to someone who can help you is important. Sometimes we feel as if reaching out will burden people or that asking for help will be an inconvenience to someone, but it’s important to remember that there are people who want to help, give advice, or even just listen to help you sort out your own emotions.
If I feel hesitant to share ‘heavier’ emotions with someone, I try to remember that if someone came to me and I were in their position, I would always have an open ear to listen to them. I have come to realize that we are always harder on ourselves than we are on other people, and this is especially true with our own mental health.“
Lexi H. | Cusco, Peru
Seattle University
“Mental health can be a hard theme to tackle while being abroad in a new environment, but ISA has proved to me that they will always be there to help. While I was in Cusco, I felt that I had a strong support system with the professors and advisors that I could always go to when I had any problem.”
Victoria R. | Milan, Italy
University of Denver
“Studying abroad is exciting, but it also comes with challenges. ISA provided resources and a strong support system, reminding me that I wasn’t alone. Having access to guidance and a community that understood the ups and downs made all the difference in maintaining my mental well-being.”
Ream E. | Seville, Spain
Rutgers University
“I decided to keep a journal as a record of how I felt each day, but also about all that happened. It definitely helped calm me down in my initial fit of nerves, but also was something I could confide in right before bed or even throughout the day when anything I wanted to record happened (e.g. something funny, trips, new friends, something I learned in class). I also called my family each night to talk to them about my day. The more I spent time in Sevilla, the more I felt at ease.”
Kathryn H. | Madrid, Spain
University of Minnesota
“ISA had their office doors open whenever you needed advice, or just someone to talk to! When I experienced homesickness, I talked to them about it and they encouraged doing things familiar to me, and my life back at home. They were always there if you wanted someone to talk to or someone to share home memories with.
They were very kind and supportive through the whole process. They were also open to discussing mental health and any issues that would arise in that aspect. They had resources for us if we needed them, but they were always there to listen if you simply wanted someone to talk to.”
Studying abroad is an exciting, transformative experience—but it can also come with moments of challenge and uncertainty. As you adjust to a new culture and navigate unfamiliar environments, it’s completely normal to notice shifts in your mood, energy, or interests. With self-awareness, a supportive community, and personalized tools, you’ll be well-equipped to embrace the full spectrum of your journey.
And remember, ISA is here for you every step of the way. Whether you have questions or just need someone to talk to, your Program Manager is your go-to before departure, and your onsite Resident Director is there to support you throughout your time abroad. We’re cheering you on and wishing you a meaningful, joyful experience.
Feeling inspired by our alumni’s journeys and ready to start your own? Share your details below, and our team will help you find the perfect study abroad experience to begin your next adventure!
