Discussing the Needs of a Neglected Population: Adjustment Problems and Health Issues of International Students

Abstract

Although international students have been coming to this country in increasing numbers, there has not been sufficient research conducted to uncover the nature of their health related problems and the unique factors which influence their health. The limited information available indicates that international students face serious problems of adjustment which impact their health. The purpose of this article is to discuss adjustment problems and health issues of international students and to suggest cohesive solutions to the unique health and acclimation problems faced by these students.

Adjusting to a new educational system and making economic and socio-personal changes puts strain and stress on international student lives which in turn affects their health. Long hours of study, inadequate rest and sleep, poor dietary and exercise habits, and obvious stress caused by the process of acculturation are characteristics of the living patterns of many international students. These living patterns may be a potential threat to the health of the growing number of international students coming to the United States.

It has been found that there are definite adverse patterns of health conditions and problems among international students. First, international students' health is found to be greatly influenced by their emotional and psychological states, often leading to a condition known as “foreign student syndrome.” Second, international students have shown different patterns of illnesses and utilization of health services than their American counterparts.