Mental Health and College Students
Four ways parents can help their children who are headed to campus
The transition from high school to college student is a significant one. This rite of passage is a first step into adulthood, and it comes with increased freedom and independence. At the same time, however, starting college ushers a new set of challenges that can take a toll on an individual’s mental health.
“Not only are these young adults adjusting to a new environment and facing increased academic demands, they often have less access to family support and must deal with increased pressure to experiment with drugs and alcohol,” said Meg Blaylock, MS, LPC, NCC, a therapist at Right Track Medical Group.
According to a 2019 report by the American College Health Association (ACHA), 66% of college students surveyed reported feeling overwhelming anxiety within the previous 12 months, while 45% felt so depressed it was difficult to function.
For many college students, these mental health challenges can have dire consequences if left untreated. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), suicide is the second leading cause of death amongst college students. In fact, the 2019 ACHA study reports that 13% of college students had seriously considered over the last 12 months.
“On many college campuses, mental health and suicide is a crisis,” Blaylock said.
These statistics can be scary, especially for parents about to send their children off to school. But, there are ways parents can make mental health care a priority during the transition, including:
1. Encourage your child to think about their mental health when selecting a school. According to the JED Foundation, part of school research should include researching “whether a particular school has the range of services necessary to support your health and success on campus.” This research may include discussions with the student counseling center or other mental health providers in the area.
2. Talk about mental health before college planning begins. “Family and friends need to start by having an open dialogue about mental health in place before their child prepares to leave for school,” Blaylock said. Having these conversations early normalizes mental health in your family and makes it more likely that if your child experiences difficulties, they’ll reach out for professional help. These conversations should include discussions about the importance of self-care, stress management and sleep.
3. Look for signs and symptoms. Even from a distance, parents should be on the lookout for the warning signs that their child may be struggling with their mental health. “These signs may include withdrawing, isolating, changing eating habits, increased irritability or just wishing that things can be over,” Blaylock said.
4. Know where help can be found. Part of your child’s transition plan should include plotting out where they can find help with their mental health, especially if they have already been diagnosed with a condition like anxiety, stress or depression. If your child experiences a mental health emergency, they should dial 911 or go directly to the nearest emergency room. If they need someone to talk to, they should visit their student counseling center, a local therapist or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
To learn more about mental health and college students listen to the South of Fine podcast.