Students face distinct challenges when studying abroad. From adjusting to a different culture and environment to dealing with homesickness and academic stress in a new country, international students have much to navigate.
Among these challenges is accessing mental health services. This obstacle can be due not only to a lack of knowledge about campus health but also because of cultural nuances and societal norms regarding mental health that each international student has faced in their life: They may be hesitant to seek mental health care when traveling abroad.
However, care is needed to cope with typical struggles and ones associated with moving to a different country.
Prioritizing and individualizing mental health services, such as therapy and support groups, will help international students navigate their new lives abroad. Taking care of mental health is nothing to be ashamed of, and international students should be assured that getting help is OK and encouraged.
I am Nigerian and faced mental health challenges in my undergraduate days as the resources were not available: In Nigeria, there is a cultural and social stigma, lack of awareness around mental health care and limited access to services. However, this problem is not specific to Nigeria but globally.
Many others share this stigma with me, and I know friends who feel unsafe or scared because of fear of being labeled weak or lazy.
Arriving in the United States has opened a new understanding of prioritizing mental health. I faced difficulties trying to receive care here not because the services weren’t available but because I was scared of others’ judgment. NAU Campus Health Services promoted its resources for international students like myself; however, the university did not push me to get the help I needed.
Research has shown international students are less likely to seek health treatment or counseling compared to domestic students. Studying abroad thousands of miles from home can be a daunting task. Some find it difficult to integrate with different cultures, societal norms and belief systems. Similarly, it can be strenuous to interact with people, and others face the challenge of understanding language and accent, impacting their academic performance and mental well-being.
Upon arriving in the U.S., even though mental health is acknowledged as a priority, the struggle and stigma still persist. This is not necessarily due to the absence of this service but a result of the lack of awareness in my home country. I was glad to have peers who reaffirmed the services available on campus and encouraged me to get help. Although my concerns, perceived judgments and insecurities made it a daunting task to seek help, deciding to do so was one of my best moments.
Mental health care is not associated with a particular country; it is a global concern and should be addressed for the well-being of international students. While some international students are often aware of the need to prioritize their mental health, the conversation can be added to.
Prioritizing mental health for international students is just as essential as physical health. Tailoring multicultural mental health resources can meet the needs of diverse international students. The university community should listen and talk to international students about mental health and the need to receive assistance.
Peer support groups can break stigmas: As international students become friends with other students, hearing their new friends normalize and talk about mental health can be encouraging.
The awareness should be student-led and also involve counselors promoting their services to international students, ensuring privacy of their information and sessions.
The university community has a role in creating inclusive mental care awareness and providing a support system for international students. Breaking the mental health stigma among international students is a collaborative effort of understanding and educating.