The Wellbeing Challenges Facing International Students
The challenges to mental wellbeing that students face has been well documented, but the situation has deteriorated following the pandemic.
However, few consider the unique challenges to wellbeing that international students face, such as the complexities of cultural understanding, medical expectations and language barriers. A recent Friends International survey found that 1 in 4 are struggling with their wellbeing.
So, at Friends International, we are responding to the crisis in innovative and practical ways. We have just launched a fun and engaging video series that explores the ‘Five Ways to Wellbeing’, a framework promoted by the NHS.
These videos guide international students to think constructively about their wellbeing and to do small things which can make a huge difference.
Watch Now
Here’s the first video, which introduces the ‘Five Ways to Wellbeing’. Watch the others for free on the Friends International App.
Mental Health and being an international student
Every year, hundreds of thousands of international students come to the UK and Ireland. They are often very smart and motivated students and are willing to sacrifice a great deal to study here.
During this adventure, however, some develop mental health problems that prevent them from making friends, settling down, or completing their studies.
Here are some reasons why it can be more difficult for international students to find or ask for the help they need:
- In some cultures, little attention is paid to mental health. Students may not be aware of mental health issues.
- The culture from which the student comes might have a negative view of mental health issues. In many countries, there is still substantial stigma and shame attached to mental illness.
- Performance pressure is significant. The large financial investment, the duration of the visa, the expectations etc. make admitting failure impossible. Too much depends on their success.
- Some students have difficulty trusting the health care system. They are afraid that a healthcare provider will share what has been discussed in confidence.
- Even if universities clearly advertise the assistance offered, the international student may not recognise it. It might be totally unclear to them because it is very different in their home culture.
- Does the care provider have enough intercultural sensitivity? A student may never indicate that what is offered does not help because they do not express themselves critically towards authority.
