ERIC Number: EJ1426021
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 7
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0744-8481
EISSN: EISSN-1940-3208
International Student Stressors and Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study
Xiaoqiao Zhang; Ga Tin Finneas Wong; Cindy H. Liu; Hyeouk Hahm; Justin A. Chen
Journal of American College Health, v72 n4 p1027-1033 2024
Objective: To identify stressors affecting international students' mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants: Twenty-two international students from 10 countries and 17 US institutions participated. Methods: Participants were recruited from a larger study examining the wellbeing of young adults during the pandemic. Results: Four main stressors were identified: (1) Uncertainty and anxiety induced by decisions and policies in response to COVID-19; (2) Fears regarding xenophobia; (3) Limited understanding by educators and school staff of international students' unique challenges; (4) Greater awareness of racial and cultural identity. Conclusion: The pandemic has contributed to additional stressors for international students. Educators and mental health professionals may help support international students' mental health by gaining basic knowledge about common stressors and directly acknowledging the challenges, educating international students on race and racism and supporting anti-racism efforts, and encouraging the creation of shared affinity spaces and increasing psychoeducation to promote resilience.
Descriptors: Foreign Students, Stress Variables, Mental Health, COVID-19, Pandemics, Anxiety, Public Policy, Stranger Reactions, Racism, Teacher Role, Self Concept, College Students, College Faculty, College Environment
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Tests/Questionnaires; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: 2027553