This time of year – particularly with mid-terms - can bring a great deal of stress in the lives of college students and their families. This is somewhat predictable given the high expectations and academic workloads. There are some things all parents need to know about your college student and their mental health.
Supporting a college student through an unexpected event can be stressful. Colleges and Universities have recognized the mental health needs of college students for some time. The growth, however, in mental health related illnesses is noteworthy and substantial.
The American College Health Association National College Health Assessment from 2010 – 2015 reports a dramatic growth in student reported incidents of the following illnesses. The data is alarming, particularly considering that health incidents can often disrupt a student’s education. Families are often aware that their college student may be vulnerable to the stress of college life but it is important to note that ordinary student health problems such as a mononucleosis, chronic health conditions or injuries also may force a student to withdraw from classes and cost a student and their family thousands of dollars.
According to a New York Times article from 2015, “Anxiety has now surpassed depression as the most common mental health diagnosis among college students, though depression, too, is on the rise. More than half of students visiting campus clinics cite anxiety as a health concern, according to a recent study of more than 100,000 students nationwide by the Center for Collegiate Mental Health at Penn State.”
Here are some essential tips offered by the JED Foundation:
- Keep the lines of communication open. Don’t be afraid to talk to your student if you think that something is wrong. You may be in the best position to notice and address any difficulties that your student is having. Be persistent!
- Know the signs and symptoms of emotional disorders as well as the warning signs for suicide. It is common for mental health problems to appear for the first time during the college years, so you may want to familiarize yourself with their signs and symptoms.
- Encourage your student to go to the counseling center if one or both of you think it is necessary. Sometimes students can be reluctant to seek help because they are afraid that someone will find out. Reassure your student that counseling services are provided confidentially and that you support them as they reach out for assistance.
- Find out whom to call at the college if you’re concerned about your student’s emotional well-being. It may be helpful to create a list of key campus contacts (form provided) and keep it in a convenient place. Always keep the list up-to-date. We suggest that all college families have these numbers not only for their own students but for friends and others who may be aware of a student who may be in need.
- Understand the circumstances under which the college will notify you regarding your student’s mental health. In addition – we recommend that all families secure FERPA permission and have permission to access your student’s information.
