From isolation to integration: The mental health journey of international students in Türkiye

Abstract

This study explored mental health, coping strategies, perceived social support, and barriers to help-seeking among first-year international students in Turkish language programs in Türkiye. A mixed-methods approach combined survey data from 381 students from 48 countries with interviews from 60 participants. Standardized scales (Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, Brief COPE) were used. Results showed 45.93% with optimal mental health, 45.14% with moderate mental health, and 8.92% with low mental health. Family and friend support strongly predicted well-being, while stigma and institutional and cultural barriers restricted access to counseling and help-seeking. Qualitative findings identified additional coping strategies and sources of support. The study emphasizes the need for culturally sensitive counseling and more accessible mental health services to address the unique challenges faced by international students.