Author: Athira Venugopal, Dr. Sibin Mathew Medayil

Abstract: Migration is a well-known process, movement of people from one place to another, this may be due to certain reasons like, employment opportunities, education purposes, enhance the standard of living etc. This study mainly focuses on the effects of social isolation on the psychological and emotional well-being of international migrant students from Kerala to the United Kingdom for educational purposes. Migration of young students is increasing day by day because of the high quality and world class education provided by the other countries and also the better infrastructure facilities. The objective of the present study was to find out the effects of social isolation on the psychological well being of international students. This study also studies about the financial or socio-economic background of the respondents and the causes or factors contributing to social isolation and the coping mechanisms they used to combat loneliness and isolation. The present study is a cross-sectional study conducted among 60 international migrant students from Kerala residing in United Kingdom for up to three years. The data was collected through structured questionnaires. The major finding of the present study is financial or economic aspect is the most significant factor that contribute to social isolation and loneliness followed by cultural and language barrier. This study contributes to the existing body of literature on the factors contributing to social isolation faced by the international student by providing a focused analysis of Malayali students' experiences residing in the United Kingdom and underscores the need for culturally sensitive support systems in educational institutions for better environment that fosters meaningful social relationships. This information is valuable for the educational institution and mental health sectors to create a supportive environment for the migrated students to enhance their psychological well-being and academic success.

Keywords: Social isolation, migration, coping mechanisms, social relationship

Article Info: Received: 15 Apr 2026; Received in revised form: 13 May 2026; Accepted: 17 May 2026; Available online: 21 May 2026

DOI: 10.22161/ijels.113.25