Student mental health: A top priority in Dubai's higher education
Looking for a higher education institution that cares about your well-being? Find out how GBS Dubai prioritises student mental health, ensuring a supportive learning environment for international students.
Relocating to another country to pursue higher education is a thrilling adventure, yet it has its own set of challenges. You will leave behind familiar surroundings, friends, and family for an environment characterised by a new culture, language, and education system. All these changes can affect your mental wellbeing. This is why you need to select a higher education institution that considers student mental health as vital and gives the necessary support required to succeed.
At GBS Dubai, we recognise the importance of student mental health on both academic performance and general welfare. That is why we have made mental health and wellbeing our top concern by introducing several initiatives aimed at helping higher education students cope with learning hurdles. Our commitment ranges from urging students to value their health and wellness to giving them emotional support as well as practical guidance. We strive to create a caring, inclusive teaching setting where each student feels secure, respected, and motivated towards achieving their academic ambitions.
This blog post delves into extensive mental health and student wellbeing initiatives at GBS Dubai that help higher education students through their educational path along with personal development.
Why is student mental health so important?
Student mental health plays a vital role in every aspect of a student's academic journey. When students feel mentally healthy and well, they are better able to:
| Focus and concentrate | Manage stress and anxiety |
| A clear mind allows for better concentration in classes, leading to improved understanding and performance. | Healthy coping mechanisms help students navigate the pressures of academic life and maintain a balanced outlook. |
| Build strong relationships | Make informed decisions |
Positive mental wellbeing fosters strong relationships with classmates, professors and support staff, creating a sense of belonging and community. |
A clear and calm mind empowers students to make sound judgments regarding their academic path and future goals. |
| Thrive in a new environment | |
| Mental wellbeing helps students adapt more easily and confidently to a new culture, language and academic environment. | |
Want to study at GBS Dubai?
Dubai's Commitment to Student Wellbeing
The Emirati government recognises the importance of student mental health and has made it a top priority in Dubai's higher education system. The government has implemented various initiatives to promote mental wellbeing among higher education students, including:
- Mental health awareness programmes: Schools and higher education institutions offer programmes and workshops that educate students on mental health issues, stress management techniques and seeking help when needed.
- Counselling services: Higher education institutions provide accessible and confidential counselling services for students experiencing mental health challenges.
- Support networks: Students can access support groups, peer mentorship programmes and online resources to connect with others and receive guidance.
Student mental health initiatives at GBS Dubai
At GBS Dubai, we understand that student mental health is crucial for academic success. Our Student Welfare Team is dedicated to encouraging students to prioritise their health and wellbeing, providing a supportive environment that fosters personal growth and development.
We believe that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Our Student Welfare Team is always available to listen empathetically and without judgment, directing students to emotional support, counselling, or practical advice organisations when needed.
GBS Dubai is committed to inclusivity and diversity, providing specialised support for higher education students with disabilities through external special needs providers. We also work to create learning adjustments tailored to individual needs, ensuring that all students have equal opportunities to succeed.
GBS Dubai's Student Welfare Team
At GBS Dubai, we go above and beyond to ensure that our students have the support they need to thrive. Our dedicated Student Welfare Team is committed to providing:
1. Encouragement, empowerment and support:
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Encouragement to prioritise wellbeing |
Empowerment to seek help |
Support to develop essential skills |
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2. A listening ear and personalised support:
The members of our Student Welfare Team are friendly, experienced, and dedicated to providing a safe and confidential space for higher education students. They will:
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Listen with empathy and without judgment |
Provide personalised guidance |
Direct students to relevant support |
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3. Special needs support and learning adjustments:
At GBS Dubai, we believe in inclusivity and creating an accessible learning environment for all higher education students. We are committed to providing:
a) Specialised support: If you have a disability, please reach out to our Student Welfare Team. We can connect you with specialised support services from external providers to ensure your academic success.
b) Learning adjustments: We understand that everyone learns differently and are happy to provide learning adjustments based on your individual needs. This can include:
- Extra one-to-one tutor sessions: Receive personalised support and guidance from our experienced tutors.
- Deadline extensions: Get extra time to complete assignments if you need it.
- Additional learning adjustments: We can make other adjustments to ensure your academic success.
Tips for higher education students to stay mentally active
Here are the important tips that international students can follow to stay mentally active during their studies:
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Connect with your culture |
Embrace new experiences |
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Stay connected with your home culture by participating in cultural events, joining online communities, or speaking to family and friends back home. |
Explore Dubai and its diverse culture. Try new foods, visit different neighbourhoods, and participate in local activities. |
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Join clubs and groups |
Practice self-care |
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Get involved in student clubs, societies, or sports teams to meet new people, develop friendships, and build a sense of community. |
Make time for activities that you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, watching movies, or spending time in nature. |
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Stay active |
Eat a healthy diet |
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Physical activity is a fantastic way to reduce stress and boost your mood. Find a workout routine that you enjoy and stick with it. |
Fuel your mind and body with nutritious foods. Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks. |
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Get enough sleep |
Talk to someone |
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Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help your body and mind rest and recharge. |
If you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed, do not hesitate to contact the Student Welfare Team, a counsellor, or a trusted friend. |
Your mental health matters at GBS Dubai:
At GBS Dubai, we are committed to creating a learning environment that prioritises student mental health and provides the support you need to thrive. We believe that when you feel healthy and well, you are ready to achieve your academic goals and make the most of your educational journey.
Remember, you are not alone. We are here to support you every step of the way.
FAQs about student mental health in Dubai
If you are already a student at GBS Dubai, you can find helpful welfare links on our website.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please reach out to our Student Welfare Team immediately or contact emergency services.
We strive to make our services accessible to all higher education students. We can help connect you with mental health professionals and resources that offer support in your native language.
Our Student Welfare Team can provide support with academic challenges, including connecting you with tutors, helping you develop time management skills, and providing guidance on managing stress and anxiety.
Stay connected through regular video calls, social media, or email. Consider visiting your family and friends when you have time off.
GBS Dubai is committed to inclusivity and diversity, providing specialised support for higher education students with disabilities and working to create a supportive environment for all students.
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