by Alberto Valverde M.

 

Moving abroad to study often brings practical questions. Is the campus secure? Where can I turn if I feel overwhelmed? Who can help if I need medical or psychological support? 

At Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, campus safety is understood in a broad sense. Alongside physical security systems and emergency procedures, the University places strong emphasis on student wellbeing, mental health support and access to healthcare services. 

From its foundation, Università Cattolica has emphasised the importance of caring for the whole person. 

Agostino Gemelli, the University’s founder, recognised that psychological wellbeing is a fundamental human need. In recent years, more than ever, this need has become even more visible among younger generations. 

Today, supporting student wellbeing is understood as a shared responsibility across the entire university community. Faculty, student services and support staff all contribute to creating an environment where students can seek help, address challenges and find the resources needed to move through moments of difficulty. 

 

Psychological Counselling Services 

A big topic among students when it comes to wellbeing is psychological support.  

Through the PRISMA (Promoting Individual and Social Resources in the Academic World) project, the university’s student services foundation offers confidential counselling to students across campuses in Milan, Brescia, Piacenza, and Rome since 1999. 

Professional psychotherapists are available to support students in addressing personal and study-related difficulties throughout their university experience. 

Starting from the 2026/27 academic year, psychological counselling will be structured as follows: 

• An initial assessment and orientation session at a cost of €30; 
• Up to five free follow-up sessions; 
• Upon the therapist's recommendation, up to four additional sessions (maximum of 10 sessions in total within the programme), at a cost of €30 per session; 
• Psychiatric support: if needed, up to five free visits with a psychiatrist for possible pharmacological therapy. 

Please note, the service is not suited to situations of distress requiring urgent or immediate intervention. 

Students who would like to learn more or book an appointment can access the service here.

 

Healthcare for Students 

In addition to psychological support, students also have access to medical services directly on campus. 

The Cattolica Health Centre offers general and specialist consultations, preventive care and first-aid support. During opening hours, nursing staff are available to provide basic medical assistance, administer prescribed treatments and offer guidance on local healthcare services. 

Students can receive: 

• General medical advice  
• Basic first aid and health checks  
• Information about local healthcare services 
• Specialist consultations by appointment 

Opening hours are typically Monday to Friday during the daytime.  

Further details about health services for international students are available here.

 

Spaces for Wellbeing on Campus 

Wellbeing at university is not only supported through services. The physical environment of the campus also plays an important role in helping students find balance during their studies. 

For one, the historic cloisters of the Milan campus offer open courtyards where students often read, meet classmates or simply pause during the day. These spaces, located at the heart of the university, combine architectural heritage with a calm atmosphere that encourages reflection and conversation. 

Students can also spend time in the University’s libraries and study rooms, which provide structured environments for focused learning as well as quieter areas for individual work. 

Alongside these academic spaces, the campus includes green and reflective areas such as the Garden of St. Catherine of Alexandria, a historic garden within the University grounds that offers a peaceful setting away from busy study schedules. Notably this space is exclusively for female students. 

 

When to Seek Help 

University life can involve moments of uncertainty or pressure, particularly during exam periods or when adapting to a new country and academic system. 

Students are encouraged, if needed, to seek support early. Depending on the situation, they may contact: 

• Counselling services for emotional or psychological concerns 
• University health services for medical support 
• Campus security for urgent safety issues 

At the end of the day, studying abroad is an experience that brings independence, discovery and personal growth. However, it can also come with moments of pressure, uncertainty or adjustment.  

Fortunately, at Università Cattolica, students have access to a range of resources specifically designed for them. Because feeling supported goes by hand with learning, and it is part of what allows students to truly thrive during their time at university.