Adapting to a New Environment: Mental Health Challenges Among South Asian International Students in Bangladesh
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Abstract
The mental health of international students has become a pressing global concern, with significant implications for academic success and overall well‑being. This qualitative study explores the mental health challenges faced by international students at Khulna University, Bangladesh, focusing on stressors, coping strategies, and institutional support. Using in‑depth interviews, fourteen purposively sampled students were engaged until data saturation was reached. Thematic analysis conducted with NVivo 14 revealed multiple challenges, including academic pressure, language barriers, cultural adjustment difficulties, and limited access to mental health resources. Personal and social issues, such as isolation from family and changes in food habits, further intensified psychological stress. Despite these difficulties, students reported effective coping mechanisms, including leisure activities, supportive peer relationships, and regular communication with family. Participants also emphasized the importance of institutional support, particularly accessible mental health services and motivational interactions with faculty, in fostering resilience and well‑being. The findings underscore the need for universities to design tailored interventions and holistic support systems that address the unique challenges of international students. Future research should examine the perspectives of policymakers in international offices to identify service gaps and improve communication between institutions and international students.
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