Preparing for College with a Mental Health Issue

Before they arrive on campus, most Freshmen do not spend a lot of time considering the changes they are going to face in college. Most likely, fear and insecurity will be part of the transition they undergo. Few of today’s incoming college students have had to share a room with anyone. In reality, their relationships with roommates will take time to develop and may require both parties to talk through conflicts. Spending time at the beginning of the Fall Semester to reach common agreement on issues like sleeping schedules, cleanliness, study habits, which items can be shared, and when others can visit the room is important and will make daily life easier.

During the Summer and/or at Orientation, parents should familiarize themselves with the mental health resources and services available on their child’s campus to encourage him or her to take advantage of them in the future as necessary. Most universities have accessibility offices, which coordinate accommodations for students with current documentation for diagnosed psychological, learning and/or physical differences.

College Student Health services typically include mental health departments that offer assessments, individual counseling and support groups. Parents should research their insurance plans’ coverage of treatment options and what out-of-network benefits are provided, along with the student health insurance options that are available through their children’s universities.

Many students discontinue mental health treatments during their Freshman year. However, stopping therapy and/or medication can cause a relapse for most psychiatric disorders. Phone alarms are helpful for remembering to take pills every day. Because the stimulants used to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder are in demand on college campuses, students should keep them hidden in lockboxes and not tell roommates, friends or acquaintances that they have them. If individuals share or sell their prescription medications, they can face serious legal action, including fines, jail and/or losing Federal student aid and loans.

Adopting unhealthy sleep schedules, consuming non-nutritious or even nonexistent meals, and using substances, such as alcohol and marijuana, can worsen existing mental health problems. Activity fairs typically are held at the beginning of each semester and are an easy way to become involved on campus. Students who join clubs and organizations, play intramural sports, and attend fitness classes and outdoor trips, etc., tend to be happier at their universities.

College truly is a full-time job, typically requiring a minimum of 40 hours each week dedicated to attending classes and studying. Visiting office hours and getting to know your professors will make it easier to ask for academic help when necessary. Most universities have Writing and/or Math Centers and some even offer free tutoring. To help ensure you are successful in college, be sure to maintain and build support systems (including your connections with family and friends at home); monitor your symptoms in a journal; engage in healthy habits, including exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet; and avoid or at least limit your use of alcohol.