Navigating Mental Health Challenges as an International Student

Is Canada “The Mean Girl” when it comes to International Students and their Mental Health?

Recruiters can sometimes paint the path of education in Canada as a bright path for prominent futures, what they fail to mention is the stress, broken spirits, and psychological toll it is for some.

The Reality After Arrival: Culture Shock and Isolation

Students arrive in Canada hopeful and motivated but suddenly feel the culture shock and segregation that leads to the darkness of isolation, lost in their thoughts of wondering if they made the right choice and where can they turn as their mental health depletes.

The Financial Burden and Systemic Failure

International students pay higher tuition which translates to keeping domestic tuition costs lower and off sets the lack or decline in government funding. With the cost of living rising and the lack of affordable housing it is a clear system failure and more stress on international students.  International students are a positive influence on our economy and an asset to filling labour gaps in such fields as engineering and computer science, both these fields have been known to have labour shortages.

Two Paths: Resilience or Suffering

While some students adapt over time and turned what could have been a journey of isolation to a journey of resilience and growth with local resources and supports, others may not be so lucky.

Burnout, Silence, and Unseen Struggles

As international students try settle in some may know there are onsite support groups, culturally informed counselors, and peer support groups but they are now depressed, overworked with school or low-income jobs and just to burnt out to realize their mental health is at stake. Their burnout may be dismissed by some as typical student stress. Some may not want to admit their vulnerability or struggles but if you are a people reader you can see it and it costs nothing to smile at someone or genuinely ask how they are doing. That simple gesture may motivate them to push forward and seek out supports or just feel like they belong. Recognize there may be an issue, respond appropriately with empathy and validate their feelings. Familiarize yourself with culturally sensitive support groups and refer them to it.

The Mental Health Crisis and Devastating Outcomes

Student’s mental health darkness may have devastating consequences and lead to extreme distress and even suicide. “The last five years have seen a substantial rise in the suicide rates among international students in Canada. An exponential rise in inflation, coupled with over exhaustive schedules, cultural shock, and social isolation are some reasons why international students bear the extremes of the “Canadian struggle.” Agarwal, R. (2024, January 15). Some students may even turn to drugs and alcohol as an unhealthy coping mechanism. Human sacrifice should not be a financial gain for a university or College.

 Current Efforts and Missing Gaps

While some places are implementing suicide prevention strategies to assist those students who are struggling, other programs such as peer wellness programs. Another idea is to develop models that address the unique cultural and transitional challenges faced by international students.  Common ground can be met with the Government too by working with international students, their advocates and Universities to create strategies that are unified and help break down barriers.  This would also rebuild the reputation of universities that have mislead international students to enroll in their programs.

Looking Ahead: Recognize, Respond, Familiarize

What about the students who are not accessing programs whether it be they are embarrassed or on the outside appear to be fine but crumbling on the inside? With free access to in person, online and being able to call someone for support I hope that generations to come will access these services since past generations have been wronged and their mental health exploited. It is time that people are addressed as individuals and not as a statistic. Remember; do not add to the discrimination - Recognize, Respond and Familiarize do not be a “mean girl.”   For myself I can’t change the system overnight, but I can be a person that will lend an ear if it helps one person have a better day and experience in Canada.

Blog Author: Kristy Hoornick December 8, 2025

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Reference

Agarwal, R., & Agarwalhttps://newcanadianmedia.ca/author/radha_agarwal/, R. (2024, January 15). International students’ mental health crises highlight lack in university resources. New Canadian Media. https://newcanadianmedia.ca/international-students-mental-health-crises-highlight-lack-in-university-resources/