Student Wellness

Volume 29, Issue 09, 13 November 2026 

In today’s article, we will talk about how important it is for international student to take care of their health in a foreign country, living alone from family. Most of the students studying in Xamk already have health insurance for 1 year. Also, they are paying for a Kela health card for student checkups. But is this enough?

There is a saying: prevention is better than cure. There are several measures one can take for their overall health. Firstly, eating good food is crucial. The classes usually take almost half a day, and if students are also participating in extracurricular activities, then they reach home even later. So make sure one is healthy. Now, what can be done? Saturdays and Sundays are usually free, and these days can be utilized for meal prep for an entire week. One can use a small container, and they can cook meals likewise. There should be some easily made breakfast. One can take homemade meals to university if they are budgeting, but xamk already provides a meal card, which in my opinion is budget-friendly. Meals should include protein, fiber, and fewer carbs. And a little bit of treats.

Another is indulging in physical activities; if students are already walking to university or cycling from home, they have done enough physical activity for the day. But if they are using a bus or car, then too much sitting can harm their health. That is why it is important for students to walk during lecture breaks. And after university or during weekends ,indulge themselves into some sports or some games for their physical and mental health.

Taking the concept of mental health further. One of the most challenging part as an international student is how to handle the mental stress. There are so many things that trigger it, because students handle everything on their own. Therefore, students should enjoy life outside of studies too, like maybe travelling with friends or trying new hobbies, eating favorite dishes, etc.

Lastly, it is important to know that only students know their health better. Nobody can tell what is happening within their body, although it will give signals; make sure to notice them. Be kind to your body and take things slow when needed.

Some additional points to be noted is that be careful when crossing roads especially during dark days and always carry reflectors. Be mindful of allergies and always check food labels. Learn to say no when needed. Appreciate the little wins in life and keep working hard.

At last, I will end with a cliché line: mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell, and students are the mitochondria of the university.