How an international community can improve your mental health abroad

Taking the step to move to another country can provide lifelong benefits that go far beyond the experience while there. In fact, building a diverse network and connecting with people from different backgrounds and cultures is an opportunity to enrich our lives, broaden our perspectives, and gain valuable skills and knowledge for the globalized world in which we live. In addition to all the well-known benefits interacting with other cultures can bring to people of all ages, it can also have a positive impact on overall mental health and well-being. 

Like any big move, when people step into something new, they seek to find a community that makes them feel at home. At IE University, for example, over 75% of students are international and represent more than 110 different countries, meaning it’s easier to build diverse connections while abroad. Many students who chose to study at IE University leave their home countries to experience life abroad, but unlike studying at another university in Spain, the IE Experience is unique in that it is both a study abroad opportunity and a multicultural environment. The benefits of experiencing a diverse community continue to impact both students’ personal and professional lives, even after graduation. 

Professional benefits of intercultural relationships

In today's globalized world, we are more connected than ever thanks to technology, media, and tools like the internet. Countries and cultures no longer exist within their own borders, but instead must interact on a global level to ensure their future success. This means that now more than ever, students and young professionals should possess the skills and competencies necessary to interact with different cultures and thrive in a global market. 

Interacting with a diverse community as a student is a great way to gain desirable skills, make new friends, and learn about different cultures. Many IE Alumni say that the friendships and connections they made while studying provided networking opportunities later in life, which allowed them to pursue their goals and succeed professionally. 

A diverse network and your mental health

Although networking at a global scale is a great way to set yourself apart in the modern world, the benefits of interacting with peers and mentors from different cultures go beyond providing you with professional opportunities. According to a study in the journal Tourism Analysis, travel can positively impact a person’s mental health and well-being by reducing stress and improving life satisfaction through new experiences. 

Interacting with a diverse network is like traveling without ever needing to leave home. In some ways, it can be more beneficial than traveling because you establish deeper and long-lasting connections with people from different cultures. This in turn can increase your understanding of others and cognitive empathy. A study published in the National Library of Medicine found that empathy is positively associated with life satisfaction and well-being. 

The challenges of establishing a diverse network

Diversifying your network and building lasting relationships with people from different cultures can be a daunting task. At IE University, students find a safe environment where connecting with a diverse network is easy for those who wish to interact with different cultures. 

Although finding peers from all around the world is an essential part of the IE Experience, that does not mean that it comes without its challenges. Cross-cultural interactions can be challenging, but the benefits can spark personal growth and help you thrive in a globalized world. 

Here are some common challenges of diversifying your network and some tips on how to overcome them: 

Cultural conflict 

It’s easy to make friends within your culture because you have a lot in common. But putting in a little extra effort to connect with people from different cultures can help you find lasting friendships and grow as a person.

Remember that learning about cultural differences can be an exciting part of intercultural relationships, but it can also be a source of hardship when trying to build or maintain friendships. Communicate with your new friends by asking them about their culture and customs and sharing yours in order to foster understanding and avoid misunderstandings. 

Branching out 

It can be easy to find comfort in a social network with a similar background to yours. After all, finding other expats from your home country is a great way to mitigate feelings of homesickness or ease the transition of living abroad. 

Make sure you also diversify your network and connect with people from other countries and cultures. It may be hard at first, but putting in the effort to interact with people from different cultures has lasting benefits! Take advantage of your experience at IE University, where you will study alongside and be in contact with peers from around the world!

Overcoming multiple language barriers

We all know the importance of learning the language of the country you now call home. But it is also important to recognize the language learning journey of others. When making friends from different cultures, it’s likely that one or more of the parties involved will be socializing in their second or even third language. 

It is important to be patient and understanding when trying to make friends in different languages. Your peers’ personalities may not shine through right away in their second language. Taking the time to get to know them and being understanding as they navigate new linguistic terrain can help you not miss out on valuable connections.

The benefits of building a diverse community definitely outweigh the challenges associated with doing so. Focusing on your well-being while abroad—whether it be for school, work, or fun—is key to living out the lasting benefits. Learn more about well-being abroad from the IE Center for Health and Well-being.