This study compared the mental health status of Asian international students (AIS) in the United States with American students and other international students by analyzing 4 years of data (2011-2014) from the American College Health Association-National College Health Assessment. No significant differences were found in the ***AIS' psychological distress, but their self-reported selfharm ideation and behavior were higher than the other two groups. Predictors of psychological distress were analyzed and implications for stakeholders are offered. K E Y W O R D S mental health status, psychological distress, Asian international students ResumenEste estudio comparó el estado de salud mental de estudiantes internacionales asiáticos (AIS, por sus siglas en inglés) en Estados Unidos con el de estudiantes americanos y de otros grupos internacionales mediante el análisis de cuatro años de datos (2011-2014) obtenidos de las Evalua-

Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, cases of discrimination and hate crimes against minority populations including international students have soared in the U.S. This study explores the relationship between international students’ perceived discrimination and their self-reported overall health and the role of social support and positive emotions in such relationship. In total, 203 international students studying at two U.S. universities participated in an online survey. The results indicated that (1) when international students perceive higher levels of discrimination, they experience lower levels of positive emotions and have lower levels of perceived social support; and (2) positive emotions were significantly associated with both psychological distress and physical health. Perceived social support was only significantly associated with physical health not psychological distress. We also provided meaningful implications for higher educational institutions that strive to enhance international students’ overall health.

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