Staying Healthy During Your Studies: Knowledge, Guidance, and Support

When should I seek help?

There’s no set point in time when you “have to” seek help. As a general rule, if physical symptoms, mental stress, or personal difficulties are bothering you for an extended period or interfering with your daily life, it makes sense to talk to a professional.

This can be the case, for example, with persistent stress, sleep problems, test anxiety, exhaustion, loneliness, or conflicts related to your studies.

Not sure where to turn? Our RUB Health Guide will help you find the right place to go.

Who does what, exactly?

Especially if you’ve rarely needed medical help before, the different professional groups can seem confusing at first. The following overview will help you find your way:

Family Doctor

The family doctor’s office is usually the first place to go for health-related questions, whether regarding physical or mental health issues. There, you can be examined, receive advice, and, if necessary, be referred to specialists or psychotherapists.

Specialists

They specialize in specific medical fields, such as orthopedics, gynecology, or neurology. Referrals to these specialists are usually issued by your family doctor’s office. Depending on the specialty, you may also be able to schedule an appointment directly.

Psychotherapists

Psychotherapists support people dealing with psychological stress and mental health conditions. The process begins with an initial psychotherapy consultation, during which you’ll discuss together what kind of support would be most helpful. Not every initial consultation automatically leads to therapy. Sometimes counseling sessions alone are sufficient, or other options may be recommended.

Many students hear that finding a spot in therapy can be difficult. That’s true, but it’s still worth taking the first step.

A good place to start is the psychotherapy consultation. The psychotherapy consultation is the first, low-threshold point of contact in the healthcare system for quickly obtaining professional help and guidance when dealing with mental health challenges.

Legal Requirement: All psychotherapists approved by health insurance providers are required to offer fixed weekly consultation hours. This guarantees individuals with public health insurance timely access to an initial assessment.

There are various ways to find a therapy spot or a psychotherapy consultation. These include, among others:

• Number 116117
• the appointment service center of the Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians,
• search portals of the psychotherapists’ associations,
• university psychotherapy clinics,
• psychotherapy training institutes, and
• other specialized search portals.

How do I make an appointment?

The first contact is usually made by phone during the practices’ listed office hours.

It’s completely normal if you’re unsure or don’t know exactly what to say. You don’t have to explain your entire situation over the phone. A brief description of your concern is usually sufficient. It’s also perfectly acceptable to contact several practices at the same time to improve your chances of getting an initial appointment.

What happens during the first session?

The first session is about getting to know your situation. Together, you’ll discuss your symptoms or challenges and what kind of support might be right for you.

You don’t have to share anything you’re not yet ready to discuss. Everything you discuss is subject to confidentiality. At the same time, you can use the conversation to ask questions and find out whether you feel comfortable with the professional.

Information for International Students

If you’re new to Germany, the healthcare system may seem unfamiliar at first. Terms, responsibilities, and procedures often differ from those in other countries.

That’s why Ruhr University Bochum and the International Office provide information and support services for international students. There, you’ll find guidance on the German healthcare system, health insurance, and key points of contact, among other things.

If you need support in English or another language, the relevant counseling centers will help you find appropriate services or connect you with suitable contacts.

Not everything reported on the internet or social media about health is scientifically sound. You can quickly evaluate information using these five questions:

• Who is behind the information?

Information from universities, public institutions, health insurance companies, professional associations, or medical experts is generally trustworthy. Be cautious if it’s unclear who created the content or if the content primarily promotes products.

• Are the claims scientifically supported?

Reliable information cites verifiable sources and clearly explains the basis for its claims. You should be skeptical of promises like “guaranteed cure” or “always works.”

• Is the information up to date?

Medical knowledge is constantly evolving. Therefore, pay attention to when information was published or last updated.

• Are the benefits and risks presented in a balanced way?

Good health information doesn’t just highlight the benefits—it also addresses potential risks, limitations, or uncertainties.

• Are these personal experiences?

Personal accounts can be helpful and encouraging. However, they are no substitute for scientific findings and cannot automatically be applied to other people.

Note: If you’re unsure, compare several reputable sources or talk to a doctor, a psychotherapist, or a counseling center.

If you want to learn about health, use sources that are as reliable as possible. These include, for example:

• Information provided by federal ministries
• Websites of public health insurance providers, such as Techniker Krankenkasse
• Universities and colleges
• Scientifically verified health portals
• Professional associations and university hospitals

You can also find information and relevant contacts on many health topics on the Ruhr University Bochum website.

Accommodations are intended to compensate for health-related disadvantages during your studies without altering the academic requirements. Depending on your situation, accommodations such as extended time limits, additional breaks, or modified exam conditions may be available.

If you think that accommodations might be helpful for you, you should seek advice early on. The relevant offices at RUB, such as the BZI or the Inclusive University, will assist you with the application process and provide information about your options.

Studying with a Chronic Illness

Many chronic illnesses aren’t visible at first glance but can still affect your day-to-day life as a student. Regular doctor’s appointments, medication, or flare-ups can make studying more difficult.

You are not required to disclose your condition. However, consulting with a counselor can help you learn about appropriate support options, such as accommodations or other services offered by the university.

Studying with a Mental Health Condition

Mental health challenges are part of everyday life for many students. If worries, anxieties, depressive moods, or other symptoms persist over a longer period and interfere with your studies or daily life, you should seek support.

There are various counseling and treatment options available both at RUB and outside the university. The sooner you seek help, the easier it often is to find suitable solutions.

Studying with a Disability

Disabilities can be visible or invisible and can affect daily student life in very different ways.

RUB offers various support services, such as assistance with accessibility, accommodations, and academic planning. Which options are right for you depends on your individual situation.

Studying while balancing family responsibilities often presents unique organizational challenges. The RUB supports you with counseling services and information on balancing your studies and family life.

Seeking advice early on can help you find personalized solutions for your daily life as a student.