Do International Students Need Mental Health Support?

Studying abroad is an ambition for many, but it can also weigh on a student’s mental health in many ways. While making new friends and learning new things is part of the journey, it is also common to feel the distance from home and family, as well as familiar routines.

Reports show that over one-third of students overseas rate their mental health as poor. Many have also felt alone with dark thoughts during stressful times. These challenges show up in their academic work and daily life, and this can affect their ability to adjust to a new environment.

The Quiet Weight of Cultural and Study Pressures

Living in a place with different customs and social expectations can feel confusing. New slang and social habits can leave students feeling left out, even when surrounded by people.

A study in the UK found that first-year students coming from other countries felt this change deeply, and this sense of being out of place made them more vulnerable to stress.

For many students, academic work can also become a heavy load. The grading systems might be different from what they have experienced.

Some students fear disappointing their families if they do not excel. One student who did well at home felt embarrassed when she struggled with new study systems abroad, which led her to hide her challenges.

Language also plays an important part. Students fluent in English may still feel stressed in conversations due to accents or local phrases. This may cause them to step back from social activities.

This social distance can increase loneliness and anxiety. Even students who keep up with their studies can feel alone sometimes, leaving them to doubt if going overseas for education was the right move.

Cultural perspectives on mental health can discourage students from asking for help when needed. Many hold back until the pressure becomes too much to manage alone. In Australia, for instance, international students often avoid these services, while local students are more likely to use them.

Impact of Ignoring Mental Health Needs

Students who do not get help can face growing difficulties. Grades may drop as stress builds. Some may stop joining group work or social activities, increasing their sense of isolation.

In serious situations, they might leave their studies early or consider self-harm. Records from Australia revealed that within a six-year span, one state saw 27 international student suicides, and sadly, many of these students had not reached out for help before their deaths.

The pandemic made things worse for international students. Many lost access to their campus and community. More than 90% said their mental health declined. Many faced anxiety and depression during this time.

It’s clear from these figures that international students need early mental health support. Getting the right help in time can keep small issues from turning into bigger struggles and can give students a way to manage challenges before they feel overwhelmed.

How Key Countries Support International Students

United States: Accessible Campus Services

In the US, students can use campus counseling services without extra cost, and many centers have staff who understand cultural differences or speak different languages. There are helplines like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline that students can call at any time. Students can use these services without worrying about their visa or grades, which can make it easier for them to reach out when they need help.

United Kingdom: NHS and Campus Support

In the UK, universities offer students free, private counseling services. Those who sign up with a local doctor can also use NHS mental health care. Many campuses hold workshops and have peer support groups to help students feel connected and informed. The UK government has urged universities to strengthen their support systems, encouraging them to notice when students are struggling and to involve families when it could help.

Canada: Wellness Resources and Community Support

In Canada, students have the option to visit campus wellness centers for counseling and mental health support. There are also 24/7 helplines listed by Talk Suicide Canada and the Government of Canada that students can call when they need someone to talk to. Taking care of mental health is seen as a key part of studying abroad, and reaching out for help is encouraged.

Australia: Supporting Student Well-being

In Australia, counseling services, peer mentoring, and multilingual support are made available at universities. A requirement is in place for education providers to ensure the mental health of international students is supported and that clear information on accessing help is provided when necessary. Some universities work with groups like Headspace and Lifeline to make support easier to find. Programs continue to grow to ensure students receive the care they need.

New Zealand’s Approach

New Zealand follows the Education Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners Code of Practice 2021. The code sets out clear guidelines on the support to be provided to students, ensuring well-being and safety are maintained throughout their studies.

Many International Students Need Support

Seeking support is seen as a step toward health, not as a weakness. Universities can assist by making services easy to find, reducing stigma, and providing resources in different languages. A welcoming setting helps with adjustment while studying in another country.