Guidance for Parents on Assisting Students with Mental Health Issues upon their Arrival
May 27, 2025 - Updated: To correct the spelling of the Atlanta Journal-Constition in the original posting
As the summer approaches and incoming college freshmen prepare for the academic year, parents can play a crucial role in supporting their children, particularly those with a history of mental health concerns. A 2024 report on Forbes.com highlighted three ways parents can make a significant impact.
Communication is Key
Some parents may view college as a fresh start, assuming that the new environment will alleviate any existing mental health issues. While the change can bring about positive aspects, the shift to college life can also be stressful. A 2024 report on VeryWellMind.com noted that stress is often linked to change and can amplify symptoms for students, especially during their first year. As a result, parents can help their students by fostering open discussions about personal stress and symptoms, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and monitoring.
Understand Family History
Mental health concerns often arise during adolescence and young adulthood. A 2023 report by the Harvard Graduate School of Education outlined the mental health challenges faced by many young adults. It is essential for parents to share their family's mental health history with their children, as this information can help clarify diagnoses and guide treatment plans. All emerging adults should be aware of their family's mental health history, as understanding potential risks can benefit future generations.
Get Familiar with Campus Resources
During orientation, some parents may accompany their children to the campus counseling center to help them locate the office. However, it is crucial to go beyond merely showing them where the center is located. Learning how the counseling services at a university truly function is essential. A 2024 report on Forbes.com explained how students and their families can evaluate a college counseling center. In addition to the counseling center, other offices on campus may offer support, including the dean of students, student success, health promotions, and campus health centers. Comprehensive knowledge of available resources can empower parents to effectively support their children.
Develop a Realistic Plan
Parents should be realistic about their plans for meeting their students' mental health needs. Establishing weekly counseling appointments throughout the academic year may not be feasible, depending on session limits at the campus counseling center. In such cases, exploring alternatives like tuition insurance and school policies regarding medical withdrawals can be helpful if severe symptoms affect a student's ability to complete the year.
Collaborating with campus mental health professionals and developing a customized plan is essential. While some parents may be hesitant to discuss their students' mental health concerns, it's important to remember that college is a distinctive experience for students who are typically of legal age, live on campus, and have roommates. Being open and collaborative can help ensure a supportive environment for students.
Encourage Help-Seeking
According to a 2023 report by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, undergraduate men are the least likely group to seek counseling when they're struggling with mental health issues. While the stigma surrounding counseling has lessened, it does not entirely guarantee that students will seek help when needed. Parental encouragement can be invaluable in this context. By making counseling appear less intimidating and more vital, parents can promote a positive attitude towards seeking help, which can ultimately lift the stigma associated with mental health support.
Parents can and should play an active role in supporting their children during their freshman year of college, particularly when mental health concerns are present. Open communication, knowledge of available resources, and proactive involvement contribute to a student's well-being and academic success.
- To further aid incoming college students in maintaining their mental health, parents can encourage their children to be proactive in seeking help when needed, especially for undergraduate men who may be hesitant to seek counseling, as reported by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution in 2023.
- As mental health in college remains a pertinent issue, parents can also work towards understanding and utilizing health-and-wellness resources such as campus counseling centers, student success offices, and health promotions to create a well-rounded support system for their children, ensuring their education-and-self-development is not impeded, as suggested by various reports and resources.
