Staying Mentally Balanced During Study Abroad in London

Mental health abroad is super important to me, especially as a first-generation student. Whether the idea of studying abroad is anxiety-inducing or exciting to you, such a change is bound to cause a plethora of different emotions, and for me this was certainly the case.

New friends: an antidote for missing home

Studying abroad at Westminster has been my first taste of life outside of the United States. When I first arrived, homesickness came on fast, and with all the adjustment being super difficult, I found solace in friendship. I was very pleasantly surprised by the amount of people within the program that were open and welcoming, and making friends here has been the most rewarding part of my experience. I think a large part of this is because so many of us came here alone, hoping to make friends, and we were all excited to meet each other. They have helped me through my homesickness and made me feel understood and not alone throughout my time here in London.

The benefits of journaling

While friends are a great deterrent against the loneliness that may come with studying abroad, mental health is incredibly complex, and treatment and techniques to promote a healthy mind are not one size fits all. While friendships have helped me, there are other things I have learned to prioritize. I 100% recommend getting a journal. Not only will you look back on it with nostalgia for your time abroad, but it can also be a good outlet for any overwhelming emotions you may be feeling. It can also be a cool souvenir! I got mine from a market in Edinburgh.

Be true to yourself

I would also recommend that you try not to compare yourself to your peers, especially if you are a first-generation student. Being abroad, especially in one of the most expensive cities in the world, you are inevitably going to be surrounded by people with completely different life experiences and different financial situations. For me, this has been a source of anxiety and I have had to learn ways to deal with this while still having fun and making connections. One of my favorite things about London has been meal deals at the grocery stores, allowing me to eat in the city affordably. I tend to skip nights out with expensive meals and drinks, but always tag along for IFSA and Westminster events where I can spend time with my friends and peers without anxiety over cost.

Lastly, remember that while studying abroad is meant to be fun, putting pressure on yourself that you should be having the time of your life every day can be harmful.

My experience abroad so far has been a mix of the highest highs and the lowest lows, but nonetheless has been an incredibly impactful experience that I will never forget. Remember that studying abroad is a brave thing to do, and no one can ever take the experience or the things you learn along the way away from you. You’ve got this!

Abby L. | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor | University of Westminster Summer | Summer 2025