International Students’ Mental Health

The challenges of adjustment and acculturation have been well-documented; however, the same attention has not been given to the mental health challenges experienced by international students. Recent research has shown that international students often report higher levels of loneliness, anxiety, and stress than their domestic counterparts. These feelings of mental distress can further be exacerbated by the complications associated with the many barriers that international students navigate in Canada, such as managing basic needs while also forging a new life without familiar supports. Studies consistently demonstrate that many international students experience a conflict between their own values and those of their adopted home, exacerbating feelings of difference. Researchers theorize that international students may not be well equipped to handle the challenges that may arise over their post-secondary careers, such as caring for themselves, balancing competing priorities, and adjusting to new social norms. International students are more likely to report a hesitancy to seek supports, as well as poor physical health, fewer social supports, less religious involvement and spirituality, and negative attitudes, all of which have been linked to higher levels of psychological distress. These issues demonstrate the critical need to establish key supports both on and off campus. International students face unique and added concerns regarding immigration, employment, and finances.

Many campuses have a department that is focused specifically on providing support for international students, including help with obtaining a Post-Graduate Work Permit, applying for Permanent Residency, investigating and resolving study permit concerns, and assisting with immigration for immediate family members (such as a spouse and/or children who remain in their home community). International student support departments can also often help with emergency bursary applications, and host peer support programs that match upper-year student mentors with younger students who need help with navigating life on campus. These programs can vary depending on the institution and size of the international student population.