Analysis of international students' health determinants in Australia

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore immigration and the vulnerability of immigrants to mental health problems with a focus on international students in a small town in Australia. A sample of 97 international students in the town enrolled in the study. This research question was examined using data obtained from questionnaires to explore the students’ perspectives on migration and its implications on mental health. In-depth interviews were utilised to ensure the collection of narratives to help explain the conclusions gathered from quantitative data. Major findings of the study include that students suffer from multiple forms of mental conditions which stem from the challenges of adapting to a new environment and lack of social support. The study found that there are multiple causes for mental health problems among international students. International students face a more stressful lifestyle than their native counterparts because of the stressors they encounter during adaptation and assimilation. It also showed that there is a strong correlation between a lack of acculturation, socio-economic support, self-esteem, and mental health. In terms of recommendations, universities should commit to enhancing acculturation, social support, and self-esteem among international students to reduce isolation and improve and preserve their health, according to the recommendations. Future research on social isolation of subcultures is also recommended to increase acculturation and stress, as well as their effects on international students.