Health and Safety Abroad

Physical Health Abroad

Studying and living within a new country will expose students to different physical conditions. It may take some time to get used to these new conditions and the stress that comes with being in a new environment. It is important for students to prepare ahead of time to ensure they know how to take care of themselves in case of an emergency or an illness.

Before going abroad, speak with your doctor about:

• Any required and recommended vaccinations for your destination
• The physical environment and the activities planned within your host country, and how that may impact any existing health conditions you may have (asthma, allergies, etc.)
• How to manage your health while in your host country. Note that movement within your host country may include exposure to varying temperatures, as well as prolonged walking on unlevel surfaces, such as cobblestone streets.
• How to keep track of any health concerns or warning signs that may appear 
• What medications you may need while abroad for a prolonged period
  • Your doctor may assist you in finding alternative medications to your usual prescription in case it is not available or permitted within your host country.

It is important to also obtain copies of your medical histories/records from your general practitioner to have accessible while living within your host country.

Visit our COVID-19 Announcements page to remain updated about the travel policies by country. Certain host countries may have different vaccination requirements than the United States.

Mental Health Abroad

Study abroad students should keep in mind that the environment of their host country has different factors that may impact their mental health, including new living conditions that require a different routine, certain dietary changes, and interactions in another culture and language. Being distanced from your support network may heighten feelings of homesickness and stress. 

Making a game plan to take care of yourself and your mental health ahead of time will help make the transition to your host country easier and enjoyable. Certain resources, such as check-in appointments and access to certain medications, may not be available while you are abroad. If you are currently receiving mental health treatment, it is recommended to discuss your plans and choice of host country with your health care practitioner. Counseling and Psychological Services at Seton Hall (CAPS) are also available to consult about your wellness preparations for your program. 

Campus & International Resources

• Seton Hall offers multiple mental health counseling and crisis services that are accessible in the following ways:
  • CAPS can be found in Mooney Hall Room 27. An on-call counselor can be reached at (973) 761-9500. Their office hours are Monday-Friday 8:45 a.m.-4:45 p.m.
  • Seton Hall offers a Mental Health Crisis Hotline at (973) 275-HELP (4357). This hotline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• The CDC offers a further list of considerations for travelers to keep in mind before, during, and after their trip about maintaining their mental health.
• GeoBlue Travel Insurance, the international health insurance policy used for students studying abroad, offers telehealth and remote counseling services. Further information is available to students registered for GeoBlue.
  • Global TeleMD is a smartphone app accessible to those registered with GeoBlue insurance, providing a global network of doctors available for virtual appointments and medical guidance. 
  • Global Wellness Assist is an international program accessible to students, faculty, and staff traveling around the world, offering confidential and free assistance regarding mental health issues.

Allergies and Dietary Restrictions

Experiencing the food culture of your host country can be a pivotal part of your study abroad program. By planning and researching their host destination ahead of time, students with allergies and dietary restrictions based on their personal preferences, health, and religion can have their own meaningful food experiences as well.

For students participating in Seton Hall Faculty Led Programs, they have the option to submit their allergy and dietary restrictions to the Office of International Programs. This information is provided to the faculty leader and the program vendor to accommodate dietary restrictions as much as possible.

• Consider that certain food restrictions may not be known in some parts of the world. Familiarize yourself with the common dishes of your host country and their ingredients before travel.
• Research what food options will be available to you based on your housing accommodations.
  • If you are living in a university dorm, reach out to the housing department to notify them about your dietary restrictions and inquire about alternative meal options offered.
  • If you are staying with a host family, they will be notified about your dietary restrictions ahead of time (if you choose to report them). However, it is good to confirm these details with them again once you arrive.
  • If you are living independently, research specialty grocery stores that offer specific ingredients for health and religious purposes.
• Having a basic understanding of the host language is key to communicating your dietary needs. Keeping a note in the local language listing your restrictions can be helpful to communicate to restaurant employees that may not be familiar with your dietary needs.
• Severe Food Allergies and Medical Dietary Restrictions: Meet with your doctor to discuss your study abroad plans and check if you need any specific medications while you are abroad. Keep in mind that some medications may be inaccessible or unheard of in your host country, so be sure to receive a prescription ahead of time at home.