Echoes of Home: The Impact of Acculturative Stress on Nigerian Students in Northern Cyprus, Investigating the Role of Loneliness and Social Support

International students navigate a complex ecosystem influenced by various interrelated factors such as academic settings, family influences, social supports, and the process of cultural adjustment. While universities provide institutional support, the direct or indirect effect of family and social support network in the adaptation process and mental wellbeing is paramount. The interplay of acculturative stress, loneliness, perceived social support, and depression among international students warrants extensive study due to its profound impact on mental health and academic outcomes. This research aims to investigate the mediating role of loneliness and the moderating influence of perceived social support in the relationship between acculturative stress and depression among Nigerian university students in Northern Cyprus. Utilizing a cross-sectional quantitative research design, data were collected via a Google Survey from 392 Nigerian international students residing in Northern Cyprus. Participants completed self-report questionnaires assessing acculturative stress, loneliness, perceived social support, depression, and demographic details. Results indicate that acculturative stress directly influences depression, with loneliness partially mediating this relationship. Additionally, the impact of acculturative stress on loneliness and depression is significantly moderated by participants' perceived social support. These findings underscore the importance of addressing acculturative stress and fostering social support networks to mitigate depressive symptoms among Nigerian students studying abroad. Further research and interventions aimed at enhancing social support mechanisms are imperative to promote the mental well-being of this population.