Evaluating mental health awareness and attitudes among international students in Japan during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

ObjectivesInternational students in Japan face unique mental health challenges stemming from cultural and linguistic differences, potentially accentuated by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, research on the mental health of this demographic is scarce. This study aims to describe their mental health status, awareness of mental health resources, and attitudes toward seeking mental health support. MethodsThis study conducted analyses based on data collected though an online survey at a national university in Japan during October and November 2022. International students were surveyed about their mental health status, awareness, and attitude. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were employed to examine the associations between survey responses and demographic variables. ResultsAmong the 116 surveyed participants, 6.9% reported experiencing poor mental health, 16.4% rated their mental health as fair, and 1.7% expressed uncertainly about their mental health status. Similarly, 4.3% indicated poor physical health, 21.6% rated their physical health as fair, and 0.9% expressed uncertainty about their physical health. Additionally, 16.4% felt that their mental health adversely affected their daily life and academics, and 12.1% believed that their physical health had a similar negative impact. Awareness of mental health resources was notably low, with only 25.9% of students being informed. Furthermore, limited awareness was observed among older students (χ2 = 8.176, p < 0.01), degree-seeking students (χ2 = 4.727, p < 0.05), and those from African countries (χ2 = 4.721, p < 0.05), compared to their counterparts. A total of 10.4% expressed reluctance to pursue informal mental health support, and 9.5% showed similar reservations about seeking formal support. ConclusionThe study underscores the critical need for targeted outreach and the development of accessible, culturally sensitive mental health interventions for international students in Japan. Enhancing awareness and accessibility of mental health resources can contribute to the wellbeing of this demographic, potentially improving academic outcomes and fostering a more inclusive, supportive environment for international students, thereby advancing international collaboration and understanding.