Talking Kits: College Student
Supporting Your College Student
What They Need
• Independence in navigating and making choices
• Space to develop as the person they are
• Grace in their growth – they’re human too
• Information, support, and reassurance
• At times, your advice (they may not ask for it)
Ways to Support Them
Stay connected via phone, text, email (even snail mail) – even if they don’t answer, they value hearing from you.
Ask honest questions – they appreciate that you care.
Be open – they’ll trust coming to you for guidance and it lets them know you respect them as an adult.
Know campus resources – websites, parent calendars, handbooks, etc.
Educate yourself on common issues – alcohol and other drugs, sexual health, dating and relationships, time management, jobs and debt, partying and social groups, mental health, and homesickness.
Offer information from valid resources, and maybe even share your personal experiences to help them distinguish between healthy and risky decisions.
Checking for Signs of Struggle
- Calling, texting or coming home significantly more or less than usual
- Reluctant or opposed to returning to school
- A major change in their mood or behavior
- The sense that something is “off”
- Drastic changes in the social circle or activities they enjoy
- Declining school performance – skipped classes, incomplete assignments, slipping grades
- Significant weight change (gain or loss)
- Without explanation asking for more money
Checking 1-2 = This stage of life is full of change and adjustment. Continue to provide support, and watch that none of these signs worsen.
Checking 3 or more = It may be time for you to have an open discussion with your student to determine if there is a specific reason or cause behind these warning signs. Then work together to create a plan that will address
the problem or concern. This may include seeking professional help.
