Study Abroad Angst: A Literature Review on the Mental Health of International Students During COVID-19

Daisuke Akiba (), Michael Perrone and Caterina Almendral
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Daisuke Akiba: School of Education, Queens College & The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, Queens, New York, NY 11367, USA
Michael Perrone: School of Education, Queens College, The City University of New York, Queens, New York, NY 11367, USA
Caterina Almendral: LaGuardia Community College, The City University of New York, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA

IJERPH, 2024, vol. 21, issue 12, 1-24

Abstract: Background: The COVID-19 pandemic presented unique and unprecedented challenges for international students, those studying at institutions of higher education outside of their home countries, due to their distinct circumstances and vulnerabilities. This literature review examines the multifaceted mental health burdens they experienced and highlights the need for targeted support and interventions. Methods: A rigorous search across three databases (i.e., PubMed, PsycINFO, and ERIC) yielded 50 empirical studies for inclusion in this literature review. A six-phase thematic analysis framework was employed to identify and synthesize key themes. Results: Seven prominent themes emerged: (1) academic and professional disruptions; (2) challenges navigating international student status; (3) social isolation and loneliness; (4) difficulties with living arrangements; (5) financial and food insecurity; (6) health concerns for self and loved ones; and (7) experiences of discrimination and xenophobia. Conclusions: This review highlights a range of tolls that mental health consequences took on international students, and it suggests the need for targeted interventions and support services to address these challenges. It also identifies critical research gaps, such as the need for longitudinal studies and comparative analyses with domestic students. The implications for inclusive policies and supportive environments to promote international students’ well-being are discussed.

Keywords: COVID-19; depression; higher education; international students; mental health; pandemic; psychological distress; student mental health; thematic analysis (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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