Psychological Distress and Help-seeking Behaviour: Chinese International Students in New Zealand

Abstract

With high numbers of Chinese international tertiary students worldwide, it is important that institutions understand how best to establish environments that support positive mental health in this student group. This study used a mixed methods approach via an online survey to explore levels of psychological distress, help-seeking preferences, and engagement with counselling among Chinese international students at a New Zealand university. Findings support existing literature showing that Chinese international tertiary students experience high levels of distress and under-utilise counselling and other campus services, while the relationship between students and family is an important consideration to assist in mitigating psychological distress. Culturally appropriate interventions are needed to improve the wellbeing, and aid the integration, of Chinese students to their host country and educational environment.