The Challenges Accompanying Cultural Adaptation: Examining the Mental Well-Being of International Students at Japanese Universities

Adapting to new educational and social environments is a challenge for all university students. However, international students face additional stressors due to the demands of cultural adjustment (Mori, 2000). While moderate stress can be a normal part of life and may even serve as a motivator in certain situations, elevated levels of stress can significantly threaten overall well-being (Robotham & Julian, 2006). When a person moves to a foreign country for the first time, they are likely to experience unpredictable circumstances, confusion, and anxiety that they would not typically face in their home country. Exposure to different cultures, teaching styles, and diverse peers can cause stress for international students, especially those struggling with the language barrier while adapting to a new culture. Academic demands become even more stressful when performed in a non-native language. Moreover, managing finances can be an additional source of stress for international students (Mori, 2000). Above all, international students are especially vulnerable to loneliness. The present study aims to explore international students’ perceptions of the factors that impact their mental well-being through a qualitative approach. The data was collected through open-ended surveys with nine international students from various Japanese universities (n=9). The findings revealed that most participants faced significant challenges, with loneliness being the most serious issue. This was primarily due to difficulties in forming relationships with Japanese people and the feeling of missing their families. Despite studying Japanese before coming to Japan, many students found it difficult to fully understand the language and adapt to Japanese society. The study proposes that more intercultural contact opportunities be created for international students to connect with Japanese students to help alleviate these challenges. Additionally, promoting intercultural education in Japan is essential to better prepare society for cross-cultural encounters. International students, Japanese university, mental well-being, challenging, loneliness