It is generally believed that mental health issues are increasing in
occurrence and severity. This overview of the literature brings together
the major studies that have focused on international student mental
health over the past 20 years.
It seems the focus has shifted from general health concerns to
problems associated with mental health. The literature pertaining to
international students demonstrates that mental health is connected with
many aspects of international student lives, not only because they are
often at an age when mental health issues may arise, but also because of
their new social environment. More recent literature is emerging from
other contexts which throw new light on the topic and contribute to
notions of preventions and interventions.