Social support, belonging, and positive mental health for African students at US universities.

OBJECTIVE

African students represent one of the fastest growing demographics at US colleges, yet little is known about their mental health and successful adjustment to college.

PARTICIPANTS

African students (N = 405) pooled from three years (2020-2023) of the cross-sectional Healthy Minds Study (HMS).

METHODS

We used tests of association to examine differences between age at migration and positive mental health. Stepwise linear regression analysis was used to examine predictors of positive mental health.

RESULTS

African students who came to the US as children reported lower levels of positive mental health than those who came as adults. Time in the US was negatively associated with positive mental health, while sense of belonging and perceived social support contributed to positive mental health.

CONCLUSIONS

Universities should consider culturally appropriate ways to cultivate a sense of belonging and access to supportive relationships to promote the well-being and success of this subsection of students.