Returning home and re-negotiating mental health: a qualitative study of help-seeking, stigma, and cultural identity among Algerian international student returnees

PURPOSE: International students navigate major academic, social, and cultural transitions while studying abroad. However, less is known about their mental health after returning home. This qualitative study explored how Algerian international student returnees understood and navigated mental health, stigma, help-seeking, and coping after returning from the United Kingdom. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews with Algerian returnees were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis within an interpretivist framework. RESULTS: Reintegration was an emotionally complex transition shaped by cultural expectations, language, stigma, and evolving identity. Five interconnected themes were generated: (1) shifting perceptions and evolving understandings of mental health; (2) struggles of return and reverse culture shock; (3) silent struggles and barriers to help-seeking; (4) coping with the unfamiliar in familiar surroundings; and (5) linguistic duality in mental health narratives. Participants experienced uncertainty in interpreting and communicating distress, and limited confidence discussing mental health with family, peers, or professionals. Despite these challenges, they demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and coping strategies informed by their international experiences. CONCLUSION: Returning home represents a critical yet under-recognised period for mental health and wellbeing. Culturally responsive reintegration support, including accessible help-seeking pathways and re-entry programmes are needed to support the wellbeing across the full cycle of international students mobility.