Sending your student to college is not only a major life change for them, but for you as well! There are inevitable changes, challenges, and conflicts that will occur. Here are a few tips on how to maintain a healthy, supportive relationship with your college student:

• Let your student know you are there to support them. Listen with an open mind. They are experiencing new things every day.
• Your student is learning how to become an independent adult. Give them the space to learn, and let them make mistakes.
• Set up a regular check-in time to facilitate communication.
• There may be conflicts between you and your student. If so, use positive communication skills, like affirmation, but set limits you feel are appropriate.
• Be clear on monetary assistance so there is no tension when talking about finances.
• Let your student explore who they are as a person. They are in a safe environment that will allow them to try out new things.
• Encourage your student to reach out for medical care if issues arise and explain that waiting to seek care may result in more severe illness.
• If you are concerned for your student’s mental health, encourage them to seek help through Counseling & Wellness Services.
• If you are concerned about your student’s imminent safety while they are on campus, please contact SJC Public Safety 24/7 at 443-336-2348.

For more in-depth information on how to support your student with their mental health needs, please visit the JED Foundation, which “is a nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for our nation’s teens and young adults, giving them the skills and support they need to thrive today…and tomorrow.”

Please remember that student medical and mental health information maintained by the SHWC is kept confidential in accordance with Maryland and federal law.