Everyone experiences illness from time to time. We have identified some of the main health issues for international students and some great advice so you can take care of yourself and stay healthy.
Sexual Health – Contraception, STIs and unplanned pregnancies
Sexual health is one topic that you should make sure that you are an expert. Read all about it at healthdirect, talk to your GP or visit your local sexual health clinic in your city.
- New South Wales
- Queensland
- Victoria
- Tasmania
- Northern Territory
- Western Australia
- South Australia
- Australian Capital Territory
You can get contraceptive medications and devices very easily and cheaply in Australia. Condoms are available from supermarkets and pharmacies.
Emergency contraceptives are available from pharmacies without a prescription and need to be taken within 72 hours for the most effective result.
Read More: Contraception and Safe Sex – What are the Options?
Anxiety & Stress
Everyone is subject to stressors but ‘stress’ itself is not a medical condition. To reduce and cope with stress, keep the following tips in mind:
- Identify the Source – Identify regular stressors in your life and how you’ve dealt with them in the past. Are you able to make changes in your life to avoid these situations?
- Sleep well – Many university students are sleep deprived because they go to sleep late. Sleep deprivation is proven to weaken the immune system making you more susceptible to a range of health issues. Set a time for going to bed and for waking up to ensure you receive enough sleep.
- Exercise & Healthy Eating – Exercise and healthy eating are proven to lower stress levels. Allocate regular times to exercise in your schedule and adopt healthy eating habits.
- Planning – Upcoming exams are often a source of stress in students. Incorporate a study planning technique to ensure you are adequately prepared for upcoming exams.
- Continuing anxiety and stress can worsen or lead to many medical conditions including diabetes, obesity, asthma and mental health issues.
Read More: Mental Health Support In Australia: Signs To Look Out For And Where To Go For Help
Skin Issues
Skin conditions are a common issue amongst newly arrived international students. Asian students, in particular, are coming from humid climates to less humid cities in Australia, such as Perth, Adelaide, Hobart and Melbourne.
Reduced humidity and colder temperatures can cause dry and itchy skin even and worsen pre-existing skin conditions such as eczema.
Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
Upper respiratory infections like the common cold and flu are extremely common amongst all students.
The best advice is to rest and fight the symptoms by drinking lots of fluid, eating good food, stocking up on cold and flu medicines, cough syrups, aspirin for fevers etc. If symptoms become worse go see your doctor.
Infections are caused by bacteria and viruses and can be easily spread so avoid getting others sick, students should stay home when they feeling unwell and avoid people who are showing symptoms.
Chronic Health Conditions
Existing health issues such as diabetes and asthma require ongoing management. Managing your condition overseas can be difficult outside of your normal environment and routine. Always seek advice and work with your local GP, who will help you manage your health condition.
This article has been supplied by Globe Medical.
