The tragic death of Indian national Parbhat near Albany, Western Australia, in 2024 has brought attention to the challenges faced by international students, particularly regarding loneliness and mental health support. Parbhat’s family emphasized the need for better support systems for students grappling with isolation and emotional distress.
Parbhat, a 24-year-old aspiring chef, had moved from Melbourne to Perth to pursue his studies. His disappearance and subsequent coroner’s ruling of suicide shed light on the mental health struggles he endured, including trauma, financial difficulties, and social isolation. His cousin Rahul described him as a caring individual burdened by unshared hardships.
One significant event contributing to Parbhat’s deteriorating mental state was an assault while commuting home from work in Perth, which left him fearful and financially strained. His subsequent withdrawal from social activities, excessive drinking, and academic challenges culminated in his dismissal from Global College Australasia, raising concerns about his visa status and overall well-being.
Community leader Asha Bhat highlighted the pervasive issue of loneliness among international students, recounting stories of profound isolation and underscoring the necessity of information sessions to educate students about available support services. She emphasized the importance of fostering a sense of belonging and connection within migrant communities to prevent such tragedies.
The financial burden of international student fees, coupled with visa restrictions on work hours, often exacerbates the stress faced by students like Parbhat. Juggling tuition costs with living expenses can lead to significant challenges, as highlighted by Rahul, who noted his cousin’s struggles in managing these financial pressures.
While institutions like Global College Australasia offer support services such as counseling and critical incident management, there are calls for increased proactive outreach and tailored assistance for vulnerable students. Rahul advocated for a more holistic approach that considers the unique needs of international students, including language barriers and cultural differences that may hinder their access to essential services.
Dr. Michelle Lim, a leading expert on loneliness, emphasized the heightened vulnerability of migrants to feelings of isolation and the critical role of community support in addressing mental health concerns. She stressed the importance of creating inclusive social ecosystems that cater to diverse needs and encourage open communication to combat loneliness and prevent adverse outcomes like suicide.
Parbhat’s tragic story serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by many international students, shedding light on the need for comprehensive support systems, destigmatization of mental health issues, and proactive community engagement to foster a sense of belonging and well-being among migrant populations.
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