A qualitative exploration of the health and wellbeing of international students studying in full-time United Kingdom (UK) higher education.

Abstract

Background: Young adults are increasingly leaving their families to pursue higher education, and many of them choose the UK as their study destination. These students may encounter several challenges as they attempt to settle into their new environment. Language and cultural hurdles, a lack of social support, feeling homesick, and rigorous academic requirements are some of the identified challenges for this group. Currently, UK institutions have not looked at the health and wellbeing of international students in great detail. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the challenges and coping methods faced by international students attending Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) in the UK, as well as their health and well-being.

Methods: Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were used to examine the experiences of eleven international students attending LJMU, with the first interview serving as the pilot study. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data from the interviews.

Results: The data analysis highlighted a number of issues relating to the wellbeing of the international students attending LJMU. Firstly, several of the participants spoke positively about their experiences studying in the UK. Secondly, the majority of the international students described difficulties with sociocultural transition, language barriers, loneliness, financial hurdles, and issues adjusting to a new educational system. Thirdly, the students overcame these challenges by using coping mechanisms such as maintaining relationships with family and friends, developing resilience, practising their faith, and utilising university facilities and resources.

Conclusion: Overall, this thesis thoroughly examined the health and wellbeing of international students and provided a comprehensive picture of their experiences living and studying in the UK. The findings also offered insightful ideas that higher education institutions may use, including assistance with English proficiency, planning orientation and social wellness activities, visa services, and assistance with job searching. Future research on international students' health and wellbeing using mixed methodologies is recommended.