Exploring the Impact of Depression, Stress, and Sleep Disturbances on Academic Success in International College Students

Abstract

Depression, stress, and sleep issues significantly affect international college students' academic success. This study examines the associations between depression and various academic, mental health, and demographic factors. Secondary data analysis was conducted for 13,242 international students from the 2022 American College Health Association's National College Health Assessment (ACHA-NCHA). A total of 92.7% of the students with moderate to high stress reported depression (χ² = 677.038, OR = 6.477 [95% CI (5.532, 7.585)], p < 0.001), and 52.2% reported sleep issues linked to depression (χ² = 2075.076, OR = 8.250 [95% CI (7.468. 9.113)], p < 0.001). Academic stress affected 82.7% and anxiety affected 79.8% of the students (p < 0.001). Higher depression rates were found among female students (67.9% versus 32.1% for males; p < 0.001), and 20.9% of those facing COVID-19 challenges reported depression. This study underscores the importance of culturally sensitive mental health interventions in addressing stress, sleep issues, and academic pressures faced by international students, thereby promoting their success and overall well-being.