International students arrive in the United States carrying more than luggage and paperwork. They bring ambition, resilience, and a deep commitment to their education—often while navigating a new language, unfamiliar cultural norms, academic pressure, and distance from family and support systems.

While many students adapt quickly, others may quietly struggle. Stress, loneliness, or homesickness begin to affect their emotional and physical well-being.

Supporting international students in both body and mind means recognizing these challenges early and ensuring access to care that reflects their lived experience.

The Unique Pressures International Students Face

International students encounter a range of overlapping stressors during their transition to life in the U.S., including language barriers, difficulty forming social connections, academic pressure, cultural adjustment, and financial concerns.

These challenges can intensify over time, particularly when students are unsure how or where to seek help.

In a digitally connected world, feelings of isolation may be amplified. While social media can provide a sense of connection, it can also encourage comparison, which research suggests may increase feelings of loneliness. Even students who appear socially engaged may feel disconnected if their experiences do not align with what they believe their lives “should” look like.

Loneliness is not a personal failure. It is a natural emotional response, and when left unaddressed, it can impact academic performance, physical health, and overall well-being.

Why Counseling Access Is Critical

Access to professional counseling is one of the most effective ways to support international student wellness. Counseling provides a safe space for students to process stress, anxiety, cultural adjustment, and homesickness in a healthy and constructive way.

For international students, language plays a critical role. Expressing complex emotions can be difficult even in familiar environments, and language barriers may prevent students from fully communicating their concerns. Access to licensed counselors who can provide support in a student’s native language can reduce stigma, increase comfort, and encourage earlier help-seeking. LewerMark recognizes these needs and partners with Teladoc to help bridge gaps in care. Teladoc Mental Health Complete connects international students with licensed therapists and psychiatrists who understand both cultural context and the unique pressures of studying abroad.

Additional resources include live coaching, digital programs, diverse language providers, and 24/7 crisis care. Students can call or chat with no limit.

Addressing Cultural Loneliness and Homesickness

Many international students experience cultural loneliness, a form of isolation tied to the loss of familiar language, customs, food, and social norms.

While friendships with peers from the same home country can provide comfort, they may not fully address feelings of isolation within the broader campus community.

Homesickness often overlaps with these experiences. What may begin as missing familiar routines or traditions can, if left unaddressed, grow into emotional distress that affects focus, motivation, and well-being.

Mental health support can help students process these emotions, develop coping strategies, and gradually build confidence engaging in new environments.

Encouraging students to expand their social networks—even through casual connections with classmates, campus groups, or shared-interest communities—can significantly improve emotional well-being. Research shows that these “loose-tie” relationships often play an important role in reducing loneliness.

Holistic Wellness Support Beyond Counseling

Student wellness is multifaceted. Mental, physical, and emotional health are deeply interconnected—especially for students navigating healthcare systems, academic pressure, and life transitions in a new country.

Recognizing that support needs don’t always fit neatly into scheduled appointments, LewerMark complements counseling services through Teladoc with additional resources designed to reduce uncertainty, offer connection, and provide timely guidance outside of traditional office hours. One such resource is Togetherall, a 24/7 anonymous online mental health community moderated by trained clinicians. Togetherall allows students to connect with peers who may be experiencing similar challenges while maintaining anonymity and accessing professional oversight in a supportive, structured environment.

Together, these services help students manage stress, make informed healthcare decisions, and feel supported—whether they need professional care, peer connection, or reassurance in moments when in-person support may not be immediately available.

Supporting Wellness in Body and Mind

Supporting international students in both body and mind means creating environments where they feel safe seeking help, confident accessing resources, and reassured that they are not navigating challenges alone.

By prioritizing culturally responsive counseling, holistic wellness services, and proactive outreach, institutions can help international students maintain well-being, remain engaged academically, and build a stronger sense of belonging—allowing them not only to succeed, but to thrive.

It may seem foolhardy to think of another global health concern in light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, but this one has been with us for centuries: tuberculosis. When it comes to tuberculosis, it’s the proverbial “Good News, Bad News” situation.

First, the Bad News. Tuberculosis (TB) is still the world’s deadliest infection, killing more than 4,000 people daily and infecting almost another 30,000. Even in the United States - estimates are 13 million people have a latent TB infection, which could develop into active TB.

But now, the Good News. Tuberculosis is a preventable and curable disease, and thanks to global efforts during the past 20 years, an estimated 58 million lives have been saved.

World Tuberculosis Day (March 24) serves as an annual reminder that we can beat tuberculosis on a global scale, but the whole world must get involved. Even as an international student, you can play a significant role by being aware of TB,  asking your doctor whether you are at risk for TB, and getting screened before you travel.

What is World Tuberculosis Day?

World Tuberculosis Day is celebrated every year on March 24, the day Dr. Robert Koch revealed that he had identified the bacteria that causes TB in 1882. The German bacteriologist also discovered the anthrax disease cycle (1872) and the cholera bacteria (1883). His discovery of the TB bacteria opened the possibility of earlier diagnosis, better treatment, and, ultimately, a cure. This year’s theme for World Tuberculosis Day is “It’s Time” — as in it’s time to act on the commitments our world leaders made at the UN High-Level Meeting that occurred back in September of 2018. Those commitments included greater access to prevention and treatment and additional funding to finance research, among others.

World Tuberculosis Day gives everyone a chance to spread awareness and to voice their support for sending committed resources to meet the World Health Organization’s (WHO) substantial goals:

• Diagnose and treat 40 million people with TB by 2022
• Reach 30 million people with TB preventive treatment by 2022
• Mobilize $13 billion a year to support efforts to end TB
• Invest $2 billion a year in TB research

Why is World Tuberculosis Day Important?

Awareness and support of TB treatment and research are still desperately needed. In 2018, an estimated 10 million new cases of tuberculosis were identified. That’s an astonishing number considering many of those who are infected will never know or show symptoms. Tuberculosis is caused by air-borne bacteria that easily infect others, but can remain inactive for long periods of time.

In addition, drug-resistant strains have large gaps between those who are diagnosed and those who are treated. Currently, only 1 in 3 people needing treatment are receiving it. Unfortunately, a more than $1.2 billion funding gap is limiting the development of accurate TB testing and treatment, including the 14 vaccine candidates and 23 drugs in clinical trials.

Who Needs to Be Screened for Tuberculosis?

You should rely on your doctor’s recommendations regarding screening, but in general, those at highest risk for tuberculosis include:

• Those who smoke or abuse drugs/alcohol
• Those who are undernourished
• Those diagnosed with HIV or diabetes
• Those in close contact with someone who has active TB
• Those who have recently visited an area with high TB prevalence
• Those from any of the 48 countries included in the WHO’s high burden for TB list

Even if you meet none of the listed risk factors, you may need to be screened if you will be working with at-risk demographics or traveling. This most certainly includes international students studying abroad. In fact, many schools and programs require TB screening, in accordance with the ACHA’s guidelines.

In addition, if you do become ill, keep an eye out for the symptoms of tuberculosis, which include:

• Coughing that lasts three or more weeks or coughing up blood
• Chest pain, or pain with breathing or coughing
• Unintentional weight loss
• Fatigue or loss of appetite
• Night sweats or chills
• Fever

You should seek medical attention and advice whenever you are ill. If you are concerned that you may have contracted tuberculosis, whether at home or abroad, discuss your fears with your doctor. They will recommend screening and treatment if necessary.

Where Can I Find More Information?

Multiple organizations are collaborating to end tuberculosis for good, and they provide ample resources on their respective websites:

• WHO: Founded in 1948, the World Health Organization works worldwide to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable.
• Stop TB Partnership: Founded in 2001, the Partnership's mission is to serve every person who is vulnerable to TB and ensure that high-quality diagnosis, treatment, and care is available to all who need it.
• Stop TB USA: Founded in 1992, Stop TB USA is a US-based member of the Stop TB Partnership.
• National Tuberculosis Controllers Association: The NTCA was created in 1995 to bring together leaders of US tuberculosis control programs.

Key Takeaway

Tuberculosis is a global issue, and there is no shame in being screened, diagnosed, or treated for TB. In fact, until we all take responsibility for our own screening, the disease will continue to spread. Far from being an embarrassing medical test, it is your way of helping to end TB for good.

LewerMark is here to help and protect our schools and students as we work together to end tuberculosis. LewerMark programs typically cover screenings, and all of our plans cover TB treatment subject to the policy guidelines, meaning that students can arrive in the U.S. with peace of mind and the ability to focus on adjusting to their new lives.

Lounging on the couch to watch television is a dull way to spend the summer months. If you are an international student studying in the U.S. for the summer, there are countless opportunities for some fun in the sun. So, put down that TV remote, get off the couch, and learn how to avoid the summer bummers.

Baseball: The American Pastime

The sport of baseball is considered “America's pastime” for good reason. Watching this sport is a summer passion for families across the nation. The crack of the bat, the cheering crowds, the sizzling hotdogs, and the ice-cold drinks make baseball a great way to spend a summer day or evening.

Baseball is America’s oldest game, starting in 1839. Today, two divisions of baseball exist: Major League Baseball (MLB) and Minor League Baseball (MILB). MLB is the top professional level, while MILB (and its various classifications) is the level below. Both leagues have teams in numerous cities across the country all with a full schedule of summer games. To attend and become a baseball fan yourself follow this link for MLB or this link for MILB. My tip for the best game day experience—wear a team jersey to the game, try a hotdog with everything on it, and enjoy the sights and sounds. “PLAY BALL!”

Attend A Local Fair

State and county fairs often occur in the summer and are one of the best ways to explore American culture as an international student.

What is a fair? In the 19th century, U.S. fairs were an event to share agricultural techniques and aid in spreading education. (Check out this interesting history of fairs link). While fairs today retain some educational value of the past, they mainly attract people with entertaining attractions including amusement rides, exhibits, car shows, etc.

Attractions at a fair often include:

• Fair food—Rarely seen other times of the year, these foods are uniquely American. Traditional fair foods include hot dogs, turkey legs, funnel cakes, cotton candy, and any food you can think of in a fried form. I recommend fried Oreos.
• Carnival games—Try your hand at various carnival games to win prizes such as stuffed animal toys. Time-honored game options include balloon darts, water shooting, milk bottle toss, and more.
• Amusement park rides—Thrill seekers can find a different assortment of rides at each fair, but a Ferris wheel is a classic option.
• 4-H Competition—Most fairs will feature young farmers and ranchers showcasing the livestock they have raised to earn competitive show titles for their animals. Each fair has specific events for different animal species; some even have pig races!

Follow this link to see fairs and festivals near you.

Visit A National Park

Why did you decide to study abroad? Was it to become more culturally aware? Travel? Learn? Visiting America’s National Parks can fulfill those goals and more. The National Parks are what many consider to be “America’s Best Idea.” Every year, these natural cathedrals attract millions of tourists to their breathtaking landscapes and awe-inspiring beauty.

The most popular parks include:

• Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona receives global recognition for its unique landscape and offers visitors a wide variety of sites. The park separates into three sections: The South Rim, North Rim, and Skywalk. Each area offers distinct attractions for park visitors.
• Yosemite National Park in California features a glacial valley framed by 4,000-foot granite mountains that include Half Dome and El Capitan. The views from Glacier Point are unforgettable. Other popular spots include Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite Falls, Wawona Tunnel View, and many others.
• Sequoia National Park in California is home to the largest trees on the planet. Due to preservation efforts, horseback or hiking is the best way to experience the majestic landscape this park has to offer. Visit this park to see the Giant Forest Museum, Crystal Cave, and Mineral King.
• Yellowstone National Park is located mainly in the northwest corner of Wyoming and is American’s first National Park. Geographic positioning above a supervolcano allows for hundreds of geysers and other natural phenomena to occur. Yellowstone is a hotspot (pun intended) for many activities from hiking, horseback riding, to watching bison and grizzly bears. Among the hundreds of attractions include Yellowstone Lake, Old Faithful geyser, and Grand Prismatic Spring.

Visit the National Park Service or the National Park Foundation website to see what parks are near you!

Experience Independence Day

July 4 is Independence Day, the biggest holiday of the summer. This patriotic day honors the 1776 Declaration of Independence of the American colonies from England and is considered the birthday of the nation. This holiday is a time Americans gather with friends and family to celebrate freedom. While this may not be a celebration of freedom for your home, don’t worry, you are encouraged to get involved with the celebration!

Check out these common ways to celebrate Independence Day:

• Fireworks—Independence Day is not a “quietly observed” national holiday. It’s explosive, literally, with fireworks! Beautiful displays light up the sky the preceding week of the holiday. Go with college friends and watch a local firework display. If you want to shoot fireworks yourself, be sure to check your local firework laws and review firework safety guidelines first.
• Barbecue—Many Americans host a barbecue cookout for friends and family to enjoy on Independence Day. A typical July Fourth barbecue offers hamburgers or hotdogs with various sides including fruit, chips, and many desserts. As a guest at a barbecue, be sure to prepare an appetizer to share at the party. These foods are a great option, click the link here for fun patriotic recipes.

Get Up and Go!

Instead of camping on the couch, optimize the time you have left as an international student. Ten years from now, you probably will not recall a movie you watched, but you will remember an action-packed getaway during the summer you learned about American culture and history. Get up and take advantage of the opportunity for adventure in this expansive country. As you walk across the fairgrounds with a funnel cake in one hand and carnival game prize in the other, you'll be glad you read this blog.

Blood Is Constantly Needed

While driving across town, you might see a sign that reads “Blood Drive Today, Please Donate.” Make no mistake; this is not a simple statement. It’s a cry for help!

Blood banks constantly request and collect donations because hospitals are in an almost constant blood shortage crisis for surgeries and lifesaving transfusions. Did you know only 40% of the US population is eligible to donate blood, yet less than 5% do? Surveys show, the majority of people who avoid donating, do so because of ten reasons.

The need for blood is constant, and maintaining a stable supply is crucial for the preparation of any injury, natural disaster, or tragedy. Blood banks rely on donations to replenish and maintain their supplies to hospitals. Scientists have found ways to engineer many artificial tissues, but blood (which is considered a tissue) is not one of them; it can only be produced by the human body.

June 14^th is World Blood Day

The World Health Organization established June 14th as World Blood Donor Day to raise awareness for the need for blood products. June 14 was selected because it is the birthday anniversary of Karl Landsteiner (1868—1943), an Austrian biologist and immunologist who developed the modern system of blood classification into groups A, B, and O.

The 2019 campaign promotes the slogan “Safe Blood for All.” The mission is a call to action for government, blood services, and health care professionals to increase blood donation through numerous platforms. Goals of the campaign from the World Health Organization include:

• To celebrate and thank individuals who donate blood and to encourage others who haven't yet;
• To highlight the need for committed, year-round donations to maintain adequate supplies and achieve universal and timely access to safe blood transfusion;
• To focus attention on donor health and the quality of donor care as critical factors in building donor commitment and a willingness to donate regularly;
• To mobilize support at global, national, and regional levels among governments and development partners to invest in, strengthen and sustain blood programs.

Blood Types

There are eight different types of blood; some are fairly common while others are quite rare and in constant demand. Interestingly, while each blood type has its own unique characteristics, most blood types are to some extent compatible with one or more other types.

The major blood types each have specific matches:

As you might imagine, compatibility is vital, otherwise, the recipient's body will reject the donor blood, which could be fatal. This fact alone makes it imperative for blood banks to have all blood types on hand and ready – regardless of the scenario that presents itself.

Requirements

Specific blood donation requirements ensure healthy blood for transfusion. The American Red Cross has the full list of all requirements for donors.

Immunizations Requirements

Immunizations are an important topic when it comes to blood donation eligibility. Individuals who have received an immunization must wait for a specific period until they can donate.

 
Travel Requirements

Individuals traveling to or from the U.S. have separate restrictions for blood donations. For example, travelers to countries with a higher chance of exposure to malaria will not be able to donate for a year. If you are a person under this category, then you are required to bring the travel form with you when donating to allow the blood bank to assess the risk. The form and volunteers will ask the following questions:

• What countries did you visit and how long did you stay?
• Where did you travel while in this country?
• Did you leave the city or resort at any time? If yes, where did you go?
• What mode of transportation did you use?

Find a Donation Location Near You

When looking for an opportunity to donate blood, you do not have to look hard. Many local churches, hospitals, community centers, and even libraries host blood drives frequently. All these locations are great ways to get involved, and many do mobile blood drives. You can contact a blood donation center nearest to you to find out additional information. The American Red Cross and Advancing Transfusion and Cellular Therapies Worldwide have donation finders on their websites to assist with locating blood drives near you!

Make a Difference

American Red Cross needs your help not only today but every day! As we have outlined, there are many ways to step up and get involved in the donation process. Set aside a small amount of time every eight weeks to donate blood; doing so might just save a life. Make your donation meaningful, select a day to donate blood in honor of a person you care for or an event that has made an impact on you. The small time commitment necessary for blood donation can make a huge impact on those affected by shortages. Did this blog debunk your reason for not donating? If so, take some time out of your day and become a repeat donor - World Blood Day is the perfect time to start!

You know the student. The one who has just arrived in the United States with limited knowledge of the culture and is apprehensive of what awaits. English may not be his or her first language and he or she may have trouble expressing their thoughts and concerns. The student may even break down right there at your desk from the stress of trying to juggle everything as he or she seeks an education in our country.

Hexiang Dong, a Chinese international student at the University of Missouri-Columbia, shared details of her battle with serious depression. “When I have problems…I just force myself to deal with it, but sometimes it’s just beyond my emotion ability,” Dong said in an interview with CGTN America, an international language news channel based in Washington, D.C.

Many students like Dong benefit greatly from having professional counselors readily available to them while they are attending college in the U.S.

Having someone an international student can talk to

The international student population experiences an array of challenges including language barriers, difficulty making American friends, academics, social distractions, and difficulties in psychological and sociological adjustment to their new environment.

It is important to make international students feel welcome and to do that we must understand their needs. These needs could include anything from navigating student debt to feeling homesick because the food they enjoyed at home is not available.

Some international students cope extremely well right out of the airport gate while others may require a little more support during their transition to a new culture.

As a longtime international student advocate, LewerMark understands the complex feelings these students endure and develops alternatives to help them adapt to their adopted surroundings. For instance, our exclusive partnership with Lifeworks My Student Support Program (My SSP) is designed to help international students who are having trouble acclimating to life in America by matching students with support in their own, native language and culture.

“With a significant number of students choosing to study outside of their home country, this offering is increasingly important for schools to extend to their students,” said Matthew McEvoy, Senior Director of Lifeworks said. “By encouraging international students to seek support in times of need, together we can decrease the stigma and enhance the overall student experience.”

Expressing Concerns to Native Speakers Who Understand

International students seeking support want to hear a familiar language because it is much easier for them to express themselves in their native language—as it is for all of us.

Lifeworks easily integrates with existing campus resources and connects students to licensed, professional counselors who speak their native languages and understand the obstacles that come with being immersed in a new culture. The multidisciplinary network of expert counselors can identify presenting problems or needs as they arise.

Immediate support is available in six core languages and ongoing support is provided in more than 60 languages via app, chat, web, telephone and video 24/7. This is beneficial to you as an international advisor because chances are, you do not speak all of the languages that your international students do.

Expanding Social Networks and Avoiding Cultural Loneliness

“Cultural loneliness” occurs from the loss of native culture and language. Oftentimes cultural loneliness is not eased by social support in the target country, which may be why international students often lean on and form friendships primarily with those who know their native culture and language for consolation  Patron, M. (2014). Loss and loneliness among international students. Psychology Journal, 11(1), 24-26

Getting help from a professional, licensed counselor who knows the international student’s culture and fluently speaks his or her language can help a student combat cultural loneliness. The counselor can encourage the student to expand their social circle and interact with other students who are not from their country of origin. This social interaction can help keep the student from drifting into isolation from others and avoiding student activities.

Reducing the Effects of Homesickness

If homesickness is not addressed, it could snowball into larger forms of depression that can affect the student’s performance. Homesickness can arise from something as simple as missing the food or music from back home.

Although some colleges are trying to incorporate more familiar food choices and diverse cultural events on their campuses, some students still do not feel comfortable in their new environment and feel homesick.

We believe that international students should not have to handle their struggle with homesickness alone and it is an issue that needs to be addressed. Click here to learn more about how homesickness affects international students.

Professional Counseling and International Student Health Insurance

“Many health insurance plans offer mental health benefits with meaningful coverage, but the real value to an international student is having the ability to speak with a provider in that student’s native language and when the need is immediate,” said Mike Lewer, President and CEO of LewerMark. “LewerMark’s focus has always been to protect international students with meaningful insurance coverage and high-quality service. Lifeworks focus on preventative support to foster student wellbeing makes this a perfect fit. We are pleased to provide this robust offering to our student population and to continue to improve the lives of students studying at our partner institutions.”

The Lifeworks My SSP program addresses mental health challenges that are not found in traditional health insurance packages for international students, such as:

• Struggling with peer pressure, loneliness, stress, depression, and/or anxiety
• Dealing with financial stress that can occur from tuition and other expenses while in school including debt advice and management
• Balancing important responsibilities while experiencing a new culture
• Coping with bereavement, harassment, eating disorders, substance abuse, gambling, domestic violence, and gay/lesbian/gender issues
• Dealing with pregnancy and childcare issues

If you are interested in learning more about My SSP and other features of LewerMark’s international student insurance plan, you can contact: Jeff Foot, Ed.D, Executive Director of LewerMark, 800.821.7715, ext. 112 or via email at [email protected].

Welcome back to school, let LewerMark and VSP help you Combat Computer Vision Syndrome

Whether you spend a lot of time on the computer writing papers, searching the web, or watching videos, chances are your body is feeling the effects of spending too much time logged on—dry eyes, tired eyes, headaches, neck pain, blurred vision. Luckily, help is on the way.

Here are Six Simple Steps you can take to help minimize the impact of Computer Vision Syndrome:

Keep blinking. It washes your eyes in naturally therapeutic tears.

Remember 20-20-20. Every 20 minutes, spend 20 seconds looking at something 20 feet away, minimum.

Get the right light. Good lighting isn’t just flattering – it’s healthy for your eyes. So, keep bright lighting overhead to a minimum. Keep your desk lamp shining on your desk, not you. Try to keep window light off to the side, rather than in front or behind you. Use blinds and get a glare screen. Position the computer screen to reduce reflections from windows or overhead lights.

Monitor your monitor. Keep it at least 20 inches from your eyes. Center should be about 4 to 6 inches below your eyes. Also, make sure it’s big enough and with just the right brightness and contrast. Adjust the screen so you look at it slightly downward and are about 24 to 28 inches away. Adjust the screen settings to where they are comfortable — contract polarity, resolution, flicker, etc.

Wear those computer glasses. Your doctor can prescribe a pair of eyeglasses just for viewing the computer screen well. If necessary, wear the appropriate corrective lenses while at the computer.

Talk to your doc. Have a comprehensive eye exam by a VSP network doctor. During your eye exam, your eye doctor can check for more than just computer vision problems. They’ll look for signs of health conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. It’s an important part of your overall health routine.

If you need to visit an eye doctor, but don’t have vision coverage, consider a VSP Individual Vision Plan which covers exams, frames, lenses and more. Visit Vision Plans to learn more and enroll.

LewerMark teams up with Lifeworks to help unique mental health issues faced by international students

The term is coming to an end. You sit at your desk in the International Office and the following situation presents itself. A student has been reported vomiting frequently in their housing unit. When asked about the vomiting, the student complains of stomach problems due to the food and resists help from campus resources or suggestions to go to the hospital. The student is a second-year student from Asia, but that is all the staff report outside of an English given name. The student has agreed to meet you, their international advisor, and is now ready to see you...

I greatly admire the commitment international students have to leave their families and culture to study in another country. During my 17 years in academia, I’ve counseled my fair share of international students experiencing homesickness, trying to learn a new culture or the finer points of English idioms.  What does feeling under the weather mean anyway?

BUT every so often, there is a student who needs much more help. She or he may be a high risk for self-inflicted harm.  Whether the situation is an assumed eating disorder, extreme depression brought on by cultural isolation, or the student has contracted an STD and cannot deal with the thought of living with it; the amount of skill, cultural insight, or language transfer may exceed what you or your campus resources can offer.

These—and more complex and dire—situations for advisors in offices serving international students or students studying abroad are why LewerMark's partnership with Lifeworks is important for you and your students. Lifeworks has licensed counselors who are cultural experts, linguistically matched to the international student population. Their counselors have a minimum of a Master’s degree in a counseling-related field and a minimum of five years’ experience. They are available 24/7 with counseling in 60-plus languages and digital content in Simplified Chinese, Korean, Spanish, French, Arabic, and English through app-based features like chat, e-mail, or phone. This service is known as the International Student Support Program, ISSP for short and higher education campuses that have our insurance plans will have this campus-integrated service providing a layer of support that many of schools do not have the resources to deploy.

Research has shown that international students face multiple mental health challenges, but are generally less likely to reach out early for campus-based support and guidance. However, if an international student wants to reach out for support, he or she likely will use their smartphone in some manner. According to a Gallup Poll Survey, 68 percent of young adults aged 18-29 text as their primary form of communication.

Our goal at LewerMark is to be a trusted companion to our partner schools striving to support international students to graduate and contribute to their global community. Unlike some insurance programs, we WANT students to use the ISSP because it can:

• increase international student on campus engagement with support and success structures
• increase enrollment retention of international students
• have favorable treatment outcomes for international students
• lower treatment dropout by international students

For our partners, the student waiting outside the door will face a professional prepared to manage the situation with a wealth of professional skills and the added knowledge that ISSP is there to assist.

A quote that has really resonated with me throughout the years is, “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” by St. Theresa of Calcutta.

For the past several months, we have seen some challenging moments in our nation and around the world that are creating “ripples” in our schools, communities, businesses, and even in our homes. As a mother, wife and business professional, it can feel very overwhelming! Lately, I have been focused on keeping my family healthy in mind, body, and spirit.

Naturally, when thinking about the well-being of myself and my family, my mind wanders to the international students we serve at LewerMark and the hurdles they face when coming to this country, as well as the study abroad students who venture overseas. I admire them tremendously given the courage they display to be globally mobile during these turbulent times. There are a multitude of stressors in students’ lives today with balancing school, learning a new culture, and dealing with a constant stream of social media and news updates surrounding problems locally and abroad.

At LewerMark, we offer resources to our international students to combat these obstacles, such as Student Assist and MyNurse 24/7®. Student Assist, a mental health counseling service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at no extra cost. There is no limit to the number of issues for which students may use the service and has translation assistance available as well. MyNurse 24/7® is a live medical hotline available for students to speak with a registered nurse about their health. The nurses are available to help students decide what their best choices are for care, day or night.

One of our main goals at LewerMark is to make your life easier while being committed to the total well-being of your students. We offer this network of services to help alleviate some stressors from your daily life.

Here are some more helpful links below for managing stress and staying well.

Ten Things You Can Do for Your Mental Health  (University of Michigan)

Health Check and Wellness Toolbox (Gonzaga University)

Mindfulness and Meditation Offer Health Benefits (Gonzaga University)

Expert Strategies for Staying Healthy at College