Supporting Your College-Bound Teen in Upholding Mental Well-Being
By Diana Weaver | Contributor
Sending your child off to college is a moment filled with both excitement and anxiety for many parents. We often ensure they have laptops, dorm supplies, snacks for late nights, and much more.
However, one crucial element frequently neglected in our college preparations is guiding our teens on how to foster good mental well-being. A recent national survey indicates that the emotional health of incoming freshmen is at a record low, with many feeling overwhelmed even before stepping onto campus.
Reflecting on my own experience as a sophomore in college, I remember going through a painful breakup, which led me to experience genuine depression for the first time. I hadn’t been educated on this matter and felt too embarrassed to seek help. Thankfully, supportive friends encouraged me to visit the counseling center.
As a single mother raising three sons, I’ve witnessed similar challenges firsthand during their college journeys. Each of them faced unique hurdles, and thanks to my own experiences, I was able to guide them towards the necessary support to navigate those tough times.
While it’s normal to feel down, anxious, or stressed from time to time, it’s essential to understand that prolonged emotions that disrupt daily life could indicate a more serious issue. Depression differs significantly from simple sadness; it can be overwhelming and might even lead to suicidal thoughts. Alarmingly, around seven percent of college students report having seriously contemplated suicide in the past year, making it the second leading cause of death for this age group.
Depression can have a familial link and often emerges between the ages of 15 and 24. The condition presents both physical and emotional symptoms that cannot be simply dismissed. For those dealing with depression, simply “pulling it together” isn’t feasible. The positive news is that effective treatments are available, and recovery is possible.
Here are several strategies for college-bound teens to prioritize their mental health:
Create a support system. Engage in campus organizations or extracurriculars such as joining a college band, participating in recreational sports, or writing for the school newspaper to form new friendships. Building healthy relationships is crucial for maintaining mental well-being.
Manage your time wisely. If you have worries regarding your studying habits or coursework management, it’s beneficial to consult with teachers, counselors, or trusted friends for advice. Most educational institutions provide resources and free tutoring to help students enhance their study skills.
Stay physically active. Regular exercise boosts mood and alleviates feelings of depression while enhancing overall well-being. Take advantage of on-campus fitness centers or participate in physical activity classes.
Mind your diet. The hectic pace of college life can disrupt eating habits, impacting mood. It’s vital to maintain a diet filled with regular, balanced meals while avoiding sugary drinks and processed snacks that can cause blood sugar fluctuations.
Prioritize sleep. Lack of rest can lead to emotional distress. Limit stimulants like caffeine and nicotine that may interfere with sleep. Establishing a consistent sleep routine and avoiding all-nighters is beneficial.
Seek assistance when necessary. If you have concerns regarding your mental health, visit the campus health or counseling center for professional guidance. Many colleges offer mental health counseling services for students. If treatment is necessary, ensure you follow prescribed guidelines, be aware of side effects, and attend follow-up sessions to monitor progress. If you don’t see improvements within four to six weeks, inform your healthcare provider.
Stay on top of your medication. For students taking medication for mental health conditions, it’s crucial to emphasize the importance of consistent intake and regular consultations with a mental health professional. Managing health conditions is a vital step toward independence, and learning to track mood swings is essential for achieving good mental health.
Advice for Parents
Connect via text or email. Allow your student the space to adapt independently. Phone calls can sometimes feel intrusive; establish a communication method that works for both of you before they leave.
Discuss sensitive topics openly. It’s important for parents to have frank conversations about alcohol, drugs, sex, and the responsibilities of adulthood. Keeping communication lines open encourages your student to reach out when needed.
Talk finances beforehand. Discuss budgeting and responsible spending habits, especially with the enticing offers from credit card companies. Ensure your child is aware of potential costs associated with credit usage.
Avoid pressuring your child about grades. Instead, engage in discussions about what they are learning. Allow them to progress academically at their own pace, which will aid in finding the right major. Understand that grade fluctuations during the first semester are common and shouldn’t be cause for alarm unless they show a pattern of neglect.
Encourage seeking external resources. Remind your child that looking for help through campus counseling or community services isn’t a sign of weakness, and they should also feel free to approach professors or seek tutoring for academic challenges.
Embrace the empty nest. If feelings of loss arise, acknowledge them but don’t dwell excessively. This transition is tough for both students and parents. Focus on self-care, revisiting past hobbies or discovering new interests.
Preparing to go off to college? Here are some must-have tips:
www.ulifeline.org
ULifeline serves as an anonymous online resource, providing details on mental health support available at colleges and a self-assessment for mental health awareness.
www.thetrevorproject.org
The Trevor Project offers crisis intervention and suicide prevention resources specifically for LGBTQ youth aged 13 to 24.
www.activeminds.org
Active Minds works to change campus culture by providing valuable information and advocacy training to support the next generation.
www.halfofus.com
Half of Us, a project initiated by The Jed Foundation and mtvU, fosters public discussions on mental health issues and connects students with the necessary support. Watch testimonials and stories from both young individuals and celebrities on overcoming their challenges.
Need someone to talk to?
Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
This 24-hour crisis hotline can connect you with mental health resources in your community.
Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386
A confidential helpline available around the clock for LGBTQ youth needing crisis and suicide prevention support.
