 Students from the Netherlands and all over the world come to Tilburg University to study. Studying in a new country or city is very interesting and exciting, but also brings challenges. Personal or medical issues can make it even more challenging. Adjusting to a new academic and social environment as well as cultural differences can cause health issues such as stress, loneliness, anxiety or mood problems. A pre-existing condition could hinder your study progress, and adapting to a new environment can further intensify stress and health problems. Therefore, it is important for all Tilburg University students to know how the Dutch healthcare system works so you can prepare yourself well. This is especially true for newly arrived international students. The Netherlands is recognised for having an excellent healthcare system, yet there are some very important issues to be aware of. 1. Health Insurance Dutch law requires international students to have an adequate health insurance. If you have a job in the Netherlands, you may be required to take out a Dutch public health insurance policy. International students who are in Tilburg for study purposes only and don't have a paid internship or part-time job are not allowed to take out a Dutch public health insurance policy. They must arrange private health insurance. Please make sure that you take out the right insurance before you need it. Ideally, you have your insurance arranged before you travel to the Netherlands to prevent having to pay very high medical bills or not getting the help you need. For detailed information about health and other insurance policies, please check our website. 2. General Practitioner, GP The General Practitioner in Dutch called Hausarts has a central role in the Dutch healthcare system. To have access to specialised medical help in the Netherlands, you need to see the General Practitioner first. This also applies to mental health care in Dutch, Ghe Ghe Zed. There can be some cultural differences. For example, prescribing antibiotics or other medications is not always the first preferred method of treatment by the General Practitioner. And when you have the flu, your General Practitioner may advise you to wait a few days for the symptoms to reduce instead of prescribing medications straight away. In addition, tests or regular check-ups are only done when necessary. This might be different from what you are used to in your home country. 3. Psychological Support In case you're dealing with mental health issues and need psychological support, therapy or medication, you will need a referral from your General Practitioner to visit a medical specialist. Once you are referred to a mental health specialist, there is usually a waiting list of at least several weeks and the availability of English-speaking therapists is limited. 4. In case of an emergency If you need to consult a doctor or a pharmacist at night or at the weekend, you need to contact the General Practitioner medical post. In Dutch, Hausuitsempost. They are only available for emergency matters that cannot wait until the next day or until after the weekend. In case of an immediate emergency, please dial 112. For help when you are having suicidal thoughts and for suicide prevention, you can call 0113 or visit www.113.nl slash English. You can also contact 113 when you know someone who is or might be suicidal. Most important advice for all students. All students are recommended to arrange health insurance in advance, so before leaving their home country and to register with a local General Practitioner as soon as possible after arrival in the Netherlands. Do not wait until you start experiencing health issues, especially if you have experienced mental health problems or have used psychopharmacological medication in the past. Arranging your health care properly will save you from additional stress in case you have a relapse or need counselling. So please, assure you have access to the Dutch health care system. A list of recommended General Practitioners in Tilburg is found on our website. Tilburg University wants you to feel at home on our campus in the city of Tilburg and that you take pleasure in learning and connecting with your fellow students. Have an educational, rewarding and healthy time as a valued member of our academic community. And please, do not hesitate to reach out and find help in case you are facing any health issues.