Mental Health & University: Supporting Overseas Students
By Anne Lee
University is an exciting time filled with new opportunities, independence, and growth. But studying abroad can also present unique challenges that impact mental health. Overseas students often face additional pressures as they adapt to new academic, social, and cultural environments.
Why Overseas Students Face Unique Pressures
Studying in a foreign country involves more than academics. Common challenges include:
Cultural and language adjustment – adapting to new social norms, communication styles, and learning methods.
Social isolation and loneliness – being away from family and established support networks.
Academic pressure – adjusting to different teaching styles, assessments, and expectations.
Financial stress – balancing living costs, tuition, and part-time work.
Acculturative stress – managing differences in culture, values, and experiences of exclusion or discrimination.
Barriers to accessing mental health support – unfamiliarity with services, language differences, and stigma can all make it harder to seek help.
These factors can increase the risk of stress, anxiety, and burnout, making mental health a priority for overseas students.
What Research Shows
Studies indicate that overseas students often experience elevated psychological distress compared to domestic students. Common findings include:
A significant proportion of overseas students report moderate-to-severe psychological distress, along with high levels of loneliness.
Academic pressures, cultural adjustment, and social isolation are frequently linked to mental health challenges.
Barriers such as stigma, uncertainty about where to seek help, or language difficulties can prevent students from accessing support early.
The takeaway: while many students adapt successfully, overseas students are at increased risk for stress and mental health challenges and may benefit from proactive support.
Common Warning Signs
Overseas students, friends, and educators should be aware of signs that mental health may be impacted:
Persistent loneliness, homesickness, or social withdrawal
Ongoing anxiety or low mood
Declining academic performance or difficulty concentrating
Sleep problems, fatigue, or changes in appetite
Avoiding social activities or new experiences
Hesitation to seek help due to uncertainty or stigma
Recognising these signs early is crucial for effective support.
Strategies for Supporting Mental Health
1. Build Social Connections
Form friendships, join clubs or interest groups, and seek peer networks. Even small supportive connections can make a big difference.
2. Use University Support Services
Most universities offer counselling and student support programs. Many provide services tailored to overseas students or multilingual support.
3. Balance Study, Work, and Life
Set realistic goals and boundaries. Prioritise sleep, self-care, and downtime alongside academic and work commitments.
4. Acknowledge Cultural Adjustment
Adjusting to a new country, language, and culture takes time. Accepting these challenges as normal can reduce self-blame and stress.
5. Seek Professional Help Early
If stress, anxiety, or low mood start affecting daily life, seek help from counselling services or mental health professionals. Early support prevents issues from worsening.
6. Universities Can Play a Role
Institutions can improve student wellbeing by offering clear information about resources, reducing stigma, and providing culturally sensitive services.
Key Message
Adjusting to university life abroad is a major transition, and it’s normal to experience stress or difficulty along the way. Struggling with mental health does not mean you are failing, it means you need support, and it’s okay to ask for it.
Taking care of your mental health is just as important as your academic success. Building connections, setting boundaries, and seeking help early can make your time studying abroad more positive, fulfilling, and sustainable.