Connecting with your student about their mental health can be very important in helping them prioritize their mental, psychological, and emotional well-being as the academic year begins. Having conversations about mental health creates the opportunity to increase connection and comfort in talking about mental health, provide support for your student, and helps discuss and identify resources available on campus.
Below are discussion topics that can help spark useful conversations about mental health.
- How would you feel about seeking mental health support if you had to talk to someone about your concerns?
- What do you need from us or your family to support you and your mental health as you begin this school year?
- What are your priorities for the upcoming school year and how can I provide support and accountability for self-care and focus on mental health while balancing your other responsibilities?
- Ask your student what signs might indicate they are experiencing increased stress or having difficulty focusing on their mental health so you can help them seek help.
- Ask your student what strengths they have that will be helpful to focus on as they navigate this transition period, as well as previous coping skills they have found beneficial. What strengths do you see in your student and would you like to share with them?
- What do you know about your family’s mental health history?
- As a parent or family member, consider sharing your experiences with mental health while studying or at other times of transition and what you have found helpful in supporting healthy adjustment.
- What are your favorite self-care activities? How can your student implement them during their studies?
Why talking about mental health is important
Connection: This helps your student know they are not alone. It can be difficult to seek help when you are struggling with mental health issues. By finding support in others, your student can make connections to reduce feelings of isolation.
Identify resources: There is often a stigma surrounding mental health. It is important to normalize the need for additional support, especially in transitional times like starting college. By starting these conversations, it allows your student to explore resources that might be helpful in their college experience.
General well-being: Mental health is just as important as physical health and often impacts many areas of life. Discussing mental health regularly promotes overall well-being.
As a reminder, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is a free and confidential on-campus resource for individual counseling, group counseling, relationship counseling and much more. Visit caps.unl.edu to learn more about our services and access self-guided online resources.
More details on: https://caps.unl.edu
