VOLUNTEERS' MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING
- At MOLAC, we recognize that volunteering abroad is both a meaningful and life-changing journey. Living and working in a new cultural environment can bring excitement, personal growth, and deep connection—but it may also come with moments of stress, uncertainty, and emotional challenge.
- It is completely normal to feel some level of worry, discomfort, or adjustment difficulties. These feelings are a natural response to being outside your usual environment, routine, and support system.
- To support your well-being, MOLAC encourages all volunteers to prioritize their mental health before, during, and after their placement. This includes staying connected, practicing self-care, being open about how you feel, and seeking support when needed.
- Your well-being matters. A healthy mind helps you fully engage, learn, and make the most of your volunteer experience.
Preparing for your mental health and wellness while abroad
Before Travel – MOLAC Volunteer Preparation Guide
At MOLAC, we aim to make volunteering experiences safe, inclusive, and well-supported. Preparing well before travel helps ensure that your placement is suitable for your needs and that you feel confident and supported throughout your journey.
Share Relevant Information with MOLAC
During your application and registration process, it is important to be open and honest about your personal needs, identity, health, and wellbeing. This includes any mental health or medical conditions, disabilities, allergies, dietary requirements, mobility needs, or cultural considerations.
Not all destinations are able to accommodate every individual circumstance. By sharing accurate information early, MOLAC and our local partners can properly assess whether your chosen program and location are a good fit for you and advise you accordingly.
Ensure This Experience Is Right for You
Volunteering abroad requires independence, adaptability, and self-motivation. While MOLAC and local teams provide guidance and support, they are not medical or mental health professionals and cannot replace professional care.
You are responsible for your own wellbeing during the program. It is important that your participation does not negatively affect your health or the safety, wellbeing, or experience of others.
Before confirming your participation, we strongly encourage you to discuss your plans with trusted people in your support network, such as a doctor, therapist or counselor, university advisor, family members, or friends, as well as your travel insurance provider.
Research Your Prescribed Medications
If you take prescribed medication, it is your responsibility to ensure you understand its availability, legality, and accessibility in your destination country.
Some medications may not be available or may be restricted in Tanzania or other travel destinations. Always consult your healthcare provider well in advance of travel to plan appropriately.
Key considerations include:
- Keep all medications in their original packaging and carry them in your hand luggage.
- Carry copies of your prescriptions, including generic medication names if possible.
- Time zone changes may affect your medication schedule; consult your doctor before making any adjustments.
- Ensure you carry enough medication for your entire stay, plus extra in case of delays or emergencies.
- Be aware of customs regulations, including transit countries, as restrictions may apply even during layovers.
- Do not stop or adjust your medication without professional medical advice, even during travel excitement or jet lag.
- Share relevant medical information with MOLAC in advance so appropriate support can be provided in case of emergency.
For additional guidance, you may consult trusted sources such as the CDC guidance on traveling with medication and the International Narcotics Control Board.
Identify Your Support Network
Before departure, take time to identify the people and services you can rely on for emotional and practical support while abroad. This may include family, friends, mentors, healthcare providers, university staff, or your travel insurance provider.
Having a clear support network and accessible contact details can be very helpful during moments of stress or uncertainty. It is also useful to reflect on how you typically manage stress and what self-care strategies help you stay balanced.
Feeling some stress before and during travel is normal. Planning ahead helps you recognize early signs of stress and respond in healthy and supportive ways, allowing you to stay grounded throughout your volunteer experience.