The Silent Struggle: Impact on Mental Health of Students Studying Abroad in Non-English Medium Courses

Bharani Kumar
Jul 9
2 min read

In the pursuit of global education and better career opportunities, many students are increasingly choosing to study in countries like Germany, France, Italy, Japan, and South Korea. While these nations offer top-quality education and research opportunities, a growing number of international students opt for programs taught in the local language—not English—either to save costs, expand job prospects, or better integrate into society.

But there’s a challenge that’s often overlooked: the impact on mental health when navigating academics and life in a foreign language and culture.

1. Language Barriers: A Constant Stressor

Studying a complex subject like engineering, medicine, or business in German, French, or Japanese can be overwhelming. Even students who complete a preparatory language course (like Studienkolleg in Germany) often find that academic language is vastly more technical and nuanced.

Misunderstanding lectures
Inability to express doubts or participate in discussions
Fear of making language mistakes in front of peers

These factors can lead to chronic stress, self-doubt, and anxiety.

2. Isolation and Communication Gaps

Social integration becomes harder when the classroom, peer groups, and even everyday life demand a level of fluency the student hasn’t yet mastered.

Making local friends becomes challenging
Group projects may feel intimidating
Students may withdraw into their own ethnic bubbles

This social isolation often leads to feelings of loneliness, homesickness, and in more severe cases, depression.

3. Academic Pressure and Impostor Syndrome

Students are known for their resilience and academic rigor. But when they’re unable to perform to their usual standards due to language difficulties, it affects their confidence.

Many fear failure or dropping grades
Some feel they’re "not good enough" compared to native-speaking classmates

This can spiral into impostor syndrome, further damaging their self-esteem.

4. Lack of Culturally Relevant Mental Health Support

While universities in Europe or Asia may offer counseling services, language and cultural barriers may prevent students from seeking help or even understanding the available options.

Students may feel mental health is stigmatized (especially among international communities)
Counselors may not fully grasp the cultural context or pressures

This leads to underutilization of mental health resources, even when support is available.

Strategies for Students and Education Consultants

For Students:

Start learning the local language early, even before you get your visa
Practice mindfulness or journaling to manage emotional health
Seek student communities or mentors who’ve been through similar journeys
Don’t hesitate to use university mental health services—they’re confidential and trained

For Education Consultants:

Ensure students understand the depth of language requirements
Encourage realistic expectations and timelines
Offer pre-departure orientation on emotional resilience and cultural adaptation
Stay connected with students even after they land abroad, at least for the first few months

In Conclusion

Studying abroad is a life-changing experience, but for students enrolling in non-English courses, the mental and emotional toll can be significant. Recognizing and addressing these challenges is vital—not just for academic success, but for long-term well-being.

At PinnAscend, we believe in supporting the whole student—academically, emotionally, and socially. Because success isn’t just about getting into a foreign university; it’s about thriving there.