Health

If your health declines, so does your happiness, social life and studies. Take time to look after yourself to get the most out of your time in Australia and ensure you don't miss classes.

Homesickness and cultural adjustment

It is very normal to feel homesick, most people who travel experience it at some stage. It can be triggered by different things such as food, smells, music, lifestyle or just missing family and friends.

Homesickness can be experienced at different periods and for different lengths of time. It can make you frustrated, depressed or angry. This can affect your studies and how you react with your classmates.

If you feel homesick, talk to somebody about your feelings. Make sure you keep in contact with family and friends. You might even join a multicultural club. BNIT has free counselling services to help you with your needs. You can contact these counselling services through Student Services on your campus. Remember, you are here to experience and enjoy a new and different culture!

Physical wellbeing

While you are studying, make sure you eat and drink well. Drink plenty of water through the day and eat a balanced diet including plenty of fruit and vegetables. Students can spend a great deal of time indoors studying, so you might want to find a sport or hobby to help you get exercise.

Living in a new culture can be stressful and difficult. If you feel lonely or stressed, talk to friends, staff or a campus counsellor.

For more serious issues, your doctor or medical health centre are able to refer you to professionals who can help. You can also contact Queensland Transcultural Mental Health Centre on (07) 3240 2833 or 1800 188 189.

If you are sick and it is not an emergency, you should visit a doctor (known as a GP - general practitioner) or family medical centre. GPs can take care of your non-emergency medical needs or refer you to a specialist doctor or hospital for further treatment. GPs and medical centres are listed in the Yellow Pages telephone directory under 'Medical Practitioners'.

For more information on health insurance please go to the health insurance section of the website.