Arcadia Australia

Internships serve as pivotal experiences for students to gain practical skills and insights into their chosen fields. However, for international students who apart from studying are also doing an internship in Australia, adapting to a new cultural and professional environment can present mental health challenges.

In this blog post, we'll explore some of these challenges specific to the Australian context and offer strategies to support the mental well-being of international studens and interns.

Challenges Faced by International Student and Interns in Australia

Cultural Adjustment:

Australia's workplace culture may differ significantly from what international students are used to in their home countries. They might encounter differences in communication styles, work ethic, and social norms, which can contribute to feelings of isolation or confusion.

Language Barrier:

English may not be the first language for many international student  in Australia, leading to potential difficulties in expressing themselves effectively and understanding instructions or feedback from supervisors.

Australian Work Culture:

Australian workplaces often value openness, collaboration, and assertiveness. International students may struggle to adapt to these expectations, especially if they come from cultures that prioritize hierarchy and deference to authority like in The US. Take it easy!

Homesickness:

Is a common challenge for international students in Australia, triggered by factors such as cultural differences, distance from loved ones, academic pressures, and social integration difficulties. To address homesickness, students can:

• Stay Connected: Use technology to maintain regular contact with family and friends back home. It’s free to use and will help you to keep in touch with your beloved ones!
• Build a Support Network: Engage with other international and local students, join clubs, and participate in social activities. Being proactive in engaging with others with similar interests or hobbies will likely to help you overcome your homesickness.
• Create Familiarity: Incorporate elements of home into daily life and celebrate cultural traditions.
• Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that homesickness is normal and temporary, and allow oneself time to adjust and adapt.

Strategies for Nurturing Mental Health:

Language Support Services:

Universities can provide language support services, such as English language classes or conversational practice groups, to help international students improve their communication skills. Clear communication is essential for reducing stress and enhancing confidence in the workplace.

Promoting Work-life Balance:

Encourage interns to prioritize work-life balance by taking breaks, engaging in recreational activities, and exploring the local culture outside of work hours. Emphasize the importance of self-care and stress management techniques to maintain mental well-being.

Access to Mental Health Resources

Ensure that international student interns are aware of mental health resources available to them in Australia. This includes university counseling services, hotlines, and community support groups tailored to the needs of international students.

1. Student Support Services at Universities:

Most universities in Australia offer a range of support services for students, including counseling, workshops, and peer support programs. These services are often free or available at a nominal fee.

2. Headspace:

Headspace is a national organization that provides mental health support and resources for young people aged 12-25. They offer online resources, information, and access to in-person support services at their centers across Australia.

More information here: https://headspace.org.au/

3. Beyond Blue:

   Beyond Blue is a leading mental health organization in Australia that provides information, resources, and support for people experiencing anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges. They offer a helpline, online chat, and resources specifically tailored to international students.

More information here: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/

4. Lifeline Australia:

   Lifeline is a national charity providing crisis support and suicide prevention services. They offer a 24/7 helpline (13 11 14), online chat, and resources for anyone in distress or needing support.

5. Australian Government's Department of Health:

   The Australian Government's Department of Health website offers information and resources on mental health, including tips for maintaining mental well-being, accessing mental health services, and understanding mental health conditions.

6.  Mental Health First Aid Training:

All Arcadia Australia staff is certified with a Mental Health First Aid. That training program is designed to teach individuals how to provide initial support to someone experiencing a mental health crisis or developing a mental health problem. We are here to help you!

7. Local Community Centers and Support Groups:

Community centers and local organizations often offer support groups, workshops, and events aimed at promoting mental health and well-being. These can be valuable resources for international students seeking peer support and connection. These catch-ups are usually free and you can find weekly events on apps like Eventbrite or Facebook.

Regular Check-ins

One way to address any concerns or challenges that students may face is to schedule regular check-ins by the employers and internship supervisors. That will help to review their progress, address any concerns or challenges they may be facing, and provide constructive feedback and support.

Going through a new cultural and professional environment can be both exciting and challenging for international students in Australia. By implementing strategies to support their mental health and well-being, we can create inclusive and nurturing environments where all interns feel valued and empowered to succeed while staying in Australia. 

It's also important to familiarize themselves with these resources and reach out for support when needed. Additionally, universities, employers, and communities can play a vital role in promoting awareness of these resources and creating supportive environments for international students.

Together, we aim to foster a culture of understanding, support, and resilience. And remember, Arcadia Staff is also here to help you whenever you need it!