Going to university is a new and exciting time for many young people. It offers you the chance to develop as an individual and take advantage of unique opportunities.
However, it may also be the first time you move away from home, stepping out of your comfort zone and looking after yourself. Your time at university could also be very challenging.
A recent UCAS survey observed a 450% rise in student mental health declarations in the UK. Despite the increase, the survey also discovered that almost 50% of students chose not to disclose mental health-related information to their universities: mental health problems among university students are much more severe than they seem.
The UCAS survey revealed that student mental health is a critical issue that requires urgent attention. While going to university abroad is an enjoyable and fulfilling experience, you should remember to look after your mental well-being.
Join us as we take a closer look at the topic of mental health among international students and discover the available mental health services in some of the most popular study destinations across the world, including:
Common causes of student mental health issues
Going to university can bring plenty of challenges to your life, especially when you are studying abroad.
It may be the first time you try adulting and living independently. You will look for accommodation by yourself and live with people who aren't your family members. You will also look after your finances and juggle study, work and personal relationships.
You will also have a busy, demanding academic life. Your workload will likely be heavier than what you experienced in secondary school. You will find yourself preoccupied with various written assignments, presentations and exams.
These challenges may bring about situations and feelings that expose you to mental health issues. Below are some of the factors that may affect your mental health as a student:
Stress
As discussed earlier, going to university can be stressful, thanks to the changes and challenges that come along with it. While stress is a natural human response and not a mental health condition itself, it can harm your mental health if you don't manage your stress effectively.
Culture shock
Culture shock can cause depression and anxiety for international students due to differences in social norms, food and attitudes.
Don't let yourself suffer in silence if you continuously feel unsettled when experiencing a new culture. It is crucial to seek advice and support if you feel low at any point during your studies.
Homesickness
Homesickness is another common cause for feeling down or anxious. Due to the nature of studying abroad, international students may miss their friends, family and the comfort of their home.
While these emotions are not unusual, feeling consistently homesick can be difficult and could affect your time abroad. In this case, we highly recommend speaking to someone about your feelings, either a professional counsellor at your institution or someone you feel comfortable with.
Lack of support
Aside from homesickness, being away from home for the first time removes you from your existing support network. Not having your friends and family close by to support you when you go through difficulties can make you prone to mental health issues.
Weather
The weather can affect your mood depending on your country of origin and where you study.
If you study somewhere with a different climate to what you are used to, then this could cause you to feel down. If it is cold and raining, you are less likely to be outside, which can reduce motivation.
One way to combat this is to try to socialise despite the weather. Find out about local places such as cinemas, galleries, museums or shopping centres, which you can enjoy all year round regardless of weather.
Stigma
In some parts of the world, mental health is not as openly discussed as it is in other countries. The stigma around mental health can make asking for help challenging, especially if you are embarrassed or reluctant to talk about how you feel.
It is understandable if you feel uncomfortable speaking to a stranger about your feelings when studying abroad. However, most higher education institutions offer various forms of mental health support, such as counselling services.
During counselling sessions, trained professionals listen to your concerns and help you manage your stress and emotions. Everything discussed between you and the counsellors will remain confidential.
If you are worried about expressing how you feel, check out our list of common mental health terms below.
Student mental health support in the UK
As of the academic year 2021/22, 679,970 international students were studying in the United Kingdom. As mentioned earlier, mental health problems are prominent among youngsters in the UK, and students are a particularly vulnerable group.
International students deal with specific barriers which can affect their mental well-being and academic progress.
According to Joanna Baker, a therapist and psychoeducation coordinator at the University of Derby, international students may face 'culture shock, homesickness, loneliness and feelings of isolation, relationship struggles, worries of both family and social expectations.'
So, where can you seek support if you are dealing with any of these challenges?
Campus-based student mental health services
In light of the soaring demand for student mental health support services, the National Health Service (NHS), the publicly-funded healthcare system in the UK, works with higher education institutions as part of a collaborative approach to improve student mental health in the country.
Some of these support services include on-campus counselling and mentoring programmes. However, international students may struggle to find out about these services in the same way as a domestic student would.
Fortunately, most university websites will have a mental health support section where you can contact the relevant service.
At the University of Derby, for instance, you can seek advice from the Student Well-being Support Team, which provides confidential assistance to current and prospective students.
The team offers guidance and advice on a variety of topics, including ADHD, anxiety and specific learning difficulties. They also provide free short-term counselling services for all students.
Student Space
Apart from on-campus mental health assistance, students in need can visit Student Space, a mental health and well-being hub tailored for students.
You can access dedicated one-to-one text, web chat, phone and email support services via Student Space. In addition, plenty of valuable mental health and well-being resources are available to help you through the challenges of student life.
Mental health helplines in the UK:
Samaritans: 116 123 (free 24-hour helpline)
Mind: 0300 123 3393 (Mon-Fri, 9 am-6 pm)
Student mental health services in New Zealand
As of March 2023, New Zealand had almost 34,000 international students, a 98% rise since the country reopened its border after the COVID-19 pandemic. While New Zealand offers diversity and breathtaking landscapes, it doesn't mean its students won't experience mental health struggles.
New Zealand emphasises support for international students in higher education. The government of New Zealand was the first in the world to implement a code of practice which sets standards for supporting international students, ensuring that they receive the care they need.
For example, the Mauri Ora (Student Health and Counselling) team at the Victoria University of Wellington provides comprehensive health and counselling services to support the mental and physical well-being of its students.
Free student counselling
On top of the usual medical checkups, students can access free counselling services for any mental health-related issues. Students in urgent need of support are welcome to book one-off, on-the-day appointments with same-day counsellors to help sort out their personal or academic problems.
Well-being workshops
The Mauri Ora team also organises an array of well-being workshops to help students cope with the challenges of university life. These workshops cover many topics, including mindfulness, confidence, quality of sleep and managing anxiety and other challenging emotions.
Similarly, the University of Waikato is also an advocate of removing the stigma associated with mental health on campus.
Mental health courses
Apart from having a mental health and well-being team made up of social workers, counsellors and mental health nurses, the university provides Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) courses to equip students and staff members with the skills and knowledge to assist people around them who are struggling with mental health problems.
These courses explore common mental health challenges such as panic attacks, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts and alcohol or substance abuse.
Mental health helplines in New Zealand:
Lifeline: 0800 543 354
Samaritans: 0800 726 666
Student mental health resources in the USA
As the number one study destination in the world, the USA attracts a substantial number of international students. As of the 2022/23 academic year, more than a million international students are studying in the States.
Published in March 2023, the Healthy Minds Study revealed that more than 60% of university students in the US had at least one mental health problem, illustrating the vulnerability of students towards mental health challenges.
Whether you are studying in the States or considering moving to the US to pursue your academic goals, we are here to help you find out what mental health support is available if you need it.
Due to the vast size of the US and the number of institutions, the amount of support available to international students varies. However, many universities in the US will offer international student services where you can ask for help and support.
Student counselling and support groups
At West Chester University in Pennsylvania, students can access a range of counselling and psychological services, such as short-term individual counselling and group therapy. Students are encouraged to schedule a triage appointment to help them choose the most suitable counselling option.
Similarly, at Trinity University in Texas, there are multiple types of mental health services available for students, including individual and couples counselling, support groups, psychiatric services and crisis support. The university website also offers plenty of self-help resources for students.
Mental health helplines in the USA:
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988
Crisis Text Line: Text 'MHA' to 741741
SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline: Call 1 800 985 5990 or text 'TalkWithUs' to 66746
Student mental health support in Australia
More than 710,000 international students were studying at Australian universities as of 2023. Home to iconic beaches, prestigious universities and a multicultural society, it is obvious why Australia is one of the most popular study destinations in the world.
However, like many other parts of the world, young people aged 18-24 are at high risk of having mental health issues in Australia. As a part of the Australian substantial international student community, it is vital to pay attention to your mental health and know where to seek mental health assistance when in need.
Versatile student support
All Australian higher education institutions are legally required to offer student support services. These services include general health, counselling, employment, language and academic support. When you first arrive at your institution, you will be shown around the campus as part of an orientation programme.
Mentoring programmes
Most Australian institutions also offer mentoring programmes, where an international student gets paired up with another student.
For example, Murdoch University in Perth provides Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) to help international students make the most of their university experience. Similarly, Edith Cowan University in Perth offers the ECU Peer Mentoring Programme to help first-year students develop a successful academic and personal experience.
Mental health helplines in Australia:
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 (Available 24/7)
Lifeline: 13 11 14 (Available 24/7)
Caring for your mental health
There may be times when you feel anxious or low during your studies. But worry not - aside from seeking professional help, you can do plenty of things to pamper your mental health while at university.
Looking after your physical well-being through exercising and having a healthy, balanced diet can make you feel more energised. Why not join your university gym? Or get involved in a sports team?
Socialising can have a positive impact on your mental health. In addition, although studying at university is demanding and you are expected to work hard, it is also vital to take regular breaks and relax.
Popular well-being apps
You might be thinking: how am I going to find the time to look after my mental health while having a busy university schedule? Well, most of us play with our smartphones frequently, so why not spend some time learning self-care techniques that benefit your mind and soul?
We have selected five useful apps that help you effectively manage your stress and emotions in everyday life.
SilverCloud
This app teaches breathing techniques and coping methods for various mental health issues, such as stress and anger.
MindShift CBT
Designed for young people who experience anxiety, this app teaches methods based on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for coping with anxious feelings instead of avoiding them.
Headspace
A stress-reducing meditation and mindfulness app, Headspace provides a variety of sessions designed to enhance your focus and promote a sense of calmness.
Catch It
This app utilises CBT techniques to assist users in keeping track of their feelings through a digital diary where they can record and monitor their thoughts.
Happify
Created by therapists and driven by AI, Happify assists you in reducing stress and cultivating a more positive mindset in just a few minutes daily with enjoyable, evidence-based games and activities.
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