Caring for your Health in a New Environment

Moving from one culture to another requires many adjustments because cultural assumptions, expectation, and practices are a part of everything we do. Similarly, good health is related to almost all of our activities, from sleeping to eating to how we spend leisure time; and the process of cultural adjustment and the steps needed to stay healthy are closely connected.

Exercise Your Way to Good Health

Research shows that exercise, in addition to providing benefits to physical health, is an excellent way to remain energetic and positive. One way of exercising is by walking or biking to and around campus. In addition, you can visit the Campus Activity Center free with your Aggie ID. The facilities include two swimming pools, a weight room, numerous cardio machines, an indoor track, as well as classes.

Manage Stress Effectively

Moving from one culture to another, beginning a new academic program, and adjusting to many changes at the same time can cause significant stress. Stress, in turn, can interfere with your ability to sleep, concentrate, and to succeed academically, so it is essential to manage your stress. You can do this by taking care of yourself, staying in touch with family and friends, making time for relaxation and rest, engaging in some fun activities in your leisure time, and maintaining your sense of humor. Americans sometimes counsel all things in moderation. This is wise advice, meaning that some work, some rest, and some socializing will help you achieve a balanced life. Too much of any one of these can cause stress. Some stress is to be expected, but if it starts to affect aspects of your day-to-day life, please contact the Aggie Health and Wellness Center.

When You First Arrive

The early days of a new culture are often filled with anticipation about the many new and exciting experiences you may have while you are here. At the same time, you have many details to take care of and many things to learn. Make sure to take care of yourself during this time. Get enough sleep. You may be jet-lagged and unaccustomed to the time change between the United States and your country. Your feelings of excitement and anxiety may interfere with your sleep. You will sleep best if you do not consume too much alcohol or caffeine, avoid eating too late in the evening, and get to bed early enough so that you can get at least eight hours of uninterrupted rest. Eat regular, nutritious meals. American food may be different from the food at home. You may be tempted it skip meals or eat too much or choose unhealthy foods (which Americans sometimes eat in excess). Eating too much fat (contained in fast food) will lead to weight gain. Eating too much sugar (found in soft drinks and desserts) often causes mood swings and loss of energy. Across the street from the campus is the Toucan Market, which has an excellent variety of fresh foods and international and ethnic ingredients.

Adjusting to U.S. Culture

Although you have been looking forward to your U.S. study experience as a positive goal and a new adventure, you will experience a period of cultural adjustment. Researchers have identified a cycle called culture shock that most people go through when they move to a new culture for an extended period. The first few weeks are exciting and fun, almost like a vacation. During this time, you will face the new environment and its challenges with anticipation and curiosity. Then a new and more difficult period sets in when you begin to feel weary of so many changes and so much that is unfamiliar. If you are a non-native English speaker, you may become exhausted from listening to and speaking in English for so many hours each day. Everything from the people to the food, the living conditions, and the way Americans relate to each other may begin to frustrate you. Perhaps you begin to spend more time at home by yourself. You may skip class or find yourself engaging in unhealthy eating or drinking. You may have trouble sleeping, or you may be sleeping many hours each day. During this period of adjustment, which can last from several weeks to several months, some students even decide to abandon their education in the U.S. Please know that this is all a normal part of the process, but it if becomes overwhelming, please remember that you can contact the Aggie Health and Wellness Center, should you need assistance.

Safety & Security in the United States