Heading off to college? Some tips to help with the transition
Leaving for college can be a very exciting time! There are many checklists out there with all the fun details about how best to be prepared financially, best products for your dorm room, and school supplies galore. But with any change of routine or change in environment it can sometimes lead to challenges. The purpose of this blog is a reminder to plan for success and most importantly normalize the fact the EVERYONE needs help sometimes. Here are a few ideas to help plan for success with an upcoming move to college.
Familiarize yourself with the wellness and mental health services at the school. Many schools have gyms and wellness programs that students can take advantage of. Additionally, most schools offer students access to a counseling program. These services can range from general assistance in adjusting emotionally to college life in the form of individual or group counseling, to more intensive needs for crisis situations. These services are usually free and geared towards the unique needs of college students and campus life.
Be aware of safety services at your school. There are many important numbers to add to your phone when you move to a new environment. Suggestions include adding numbers for campus police, crisis services, and safe ride/sober driver programs. It can also be helpful to have national services such as the suicide prevention lifeline 800-273-8255 and the crisis text line 741741 for text assistance from a crisis counselor. Having these numbers programed into a phone ahead of time will make it easier for someone to access services if needed, either for yourself or for a friend.
Create a calming environment. Decorating a new living space can be a lot of fun, but don’t forget to bring some comfort items in addition to your basic needs. Having items that bring positive memories is a wonderful start, but also having some items that can function as calming supports can be a great tool. Being present and utilizing grounding techniques are great ways to combat anxiety when it creeps up. Simple examples of this include a texture pillow or a snow globe. Focusing on the feel of the pillow or watching the snow slowly fall while utilizing breathing techniques can boost your anxiety fighting efforts.
Secure your support system. Is there family in the area where the college is? When is the first visit planned? Who can you call if you just want to check in? Some of these things might seem like they have obvious answer, but if this is your first time living away from home or in a new environment, it might not be so simple. Identify who you can call and where to go if they need support of any kind.
These are a few ideas to help support your (or your teenagers) transition to college. These suggestions are aimed to be universal, but there may be services specific to the college you are attending. If you are currently receiving services that you would like to continue while away at school (i.e., Individual therapy or psychiatry services), make sure to speak with your clinician before you go. Some clinicians will be able to continue to provide services, but issues of distance and state licensure can interfere. The best plan is to speak with your current clinician directly to identify next steps and tools for locating new providers if needed. Remember, college can be an amazing and sometimes challenging experience, and stress happens to everyone! Don’t forget to reach out for help if you need it!
Written by:
Kristen Wilson, LCSW-C
Therapist