Travelling in your twenties and your mental health

Evidence suggests that it is commonplace for a substantial amount of young people to go travelling abroad during their twenties.  The world is becoming more interconnected and we are living in a world that is more like a global village.  Whether it’s a solo trip, with a partner or a group, indulging yourself in an adventure is becoming more the norm. 

Of course, lockdown halted a lot of this globalised travel in recent years. However, recently there are more and more opportunities open and it becomes a domino effect for others to follow suit. A big impact is the effect of social media platforms enabling viewing of other's travels to distant lands.  Although, in some parts of the world if you want to get in then don’t just keep planning instead it’s time to put your goals into action. Recent News from Australia – officials are looking to reduce the yearly intake to 250,000 - roughly in line with pre-pandemic levels - by June 2025.  In addition, under the new plan, things will be tightened up for low skilled and international students with regard to Visa rules

Strains on your Mental Health

It is important to be aware that planning to live abroad can put a strain on your mental health before you even set off. You have a thought, a desire that turns into a plan.  You get excited and begin planning your trip with a friend or a partner.  Informing loved ones at home can be a daunting prospect and you may worry about this.  Other issues of concern might be your career and how will that develop while you are away or look on your C.V.?

Top tips to be prepared and help reduce your anxieties:  Do your homework thoroughly before you embark on your adventure.

• Give a lot of thought to your goal and ask others about the pitfalls as well as the good prospects.

• It should go without saying to ensure you have all your injections and inoculations.

• Learn some basic first aid or better still go on a course. 

• Travel visas - Be aware that Visas for different countries can mean the provision of different supporting documents.  Before you go find out all you can about what is required.  Be warned it will not be as simple as you may think for some countries – especially Australia have different visas for lengths of stay, where there can be delays and very long waiting times.

• Make sure you have a backup financial plan.

• Have a backup plan for most things. When you go to another country, you can't fall back on friends and family expecting immediate help because of time differences there will be limited windows of communication.

• You must learn to become more independent from day one in speaking up for yourself and keeping your cool in awkward situations.

• Be prepared for a culture shock.  Things work differently, be it better or worse.  Don't expect systems you have been used to before to be similar. Health care, insurance, renting a house, tax and especially law.

• Keep a note of important phone numbers, contacts, British Embassy, airports … and not just on your phone – keep a paper copy too!

• Make sure you acknowledge local customs and religions i.e. cover up your head/body when it is required to do so.

• English is the spoken language in many parts of the world but showing some knowledge of the local cultural tongue will stand you in good stead.

With so many people now travelling abroad it is good that social media actually informs you when an old-school chum is in the same part of the world.  This person might have been a distant friend but it's still a good plan to get in touch.  

It’s important to check in with family members at home even though it may be difficult due to different time zones. However, there is no excuse not to, because online platforms such as Google Meet, Zoom and of course What’sApp making this even easier to keep connected.

Above all remember to keep alert but enjoy your adventure!