The Mental Health and Acculturative Experiences of Graduate International Students: A Qualitative Account of Acculturative Experiences, Mental Health Status, and Mental Health Literacy

Abstract

The mental health and acculturative experiences are known to be challenging for international students situated within the Western context. While studies have reported on their mental health, mental health status and acculturation, there has been little focus on graduate international students specifically. Recognising that study level and age group can influence the lived experience of international students, this research qualitatively explored their experiences of acculturation within a Canadian context, and its influence on their overall mental health. GISs struggle with persistent feelings of otherness, often finding themselves on the outlines of academic and social spaces. Negative acculturative experiences adversely impact the mental health of GISs, and limit their help-seeking behaviours. Findings from this research can inform support services (counselling, immigration, acculturative supports) that are catered to GISs so that their acculturative and mental health needs are addressed.