For many young people, college is their first time being independent and navigating life, routines, and new experiences without the comfort and predictability of home. That’s a big transition, and one that may bring about or worsen certain mental health conditions. 

There are all sorts of things that can lead to a college student struggling with their mental health, including academic and social pressures, body image issues, feelings of isolation, and uncertainty about the future. Alcohol and drug use are also common on college campuses, providing increased access to substances and less oversight of use. 

So, what should a concerned parent or caregiver do? Below, you’ll find some guidance on how to help college students with mental health issues.  

Is Your College Student Struggling? Here’s What to Look For

Nearly 40% of college students will experience a significant mental health issue. The sooner you can address their struggles, the better; however, that can be tricky to do when your child is spending more (or all) of their time in another location. 

Fortunately, there are certain signs of mental health issues that you should be able to identify regardless of proximity, including:

• Sudden changes in mood, behavior, or energy levels
• Withdrawal from social activities or support networks
• Poor class attendance and a decline in academic performance
• Increased irritability and/or emotional outbursts
• Complaints of physical symptoms like fatigue, stomach troubles, or unexplained aches and pains

Mental health conditions are treatable, if not curable, so if you notice a college student struggling, it’s time to act. Untreated mental health issues can have major long-term consequences, including limitations on academic performance and career prospects, increased risk of substance use and self-harm, difficulties maintaining healthy relationships, and a strain on family dynamics and support systems. There is also the potential for the development of a chronic mental health condition. 

How to Help College Students with Mental Health Issues: 5 Tips for Caregivers

When it comes to how to help a college student with depression and anxiety or any other mental health condition they may be struggling with, the first thing you have to remember is the importance of early intervention. 

While many college students are legally adults and have more control over their health and treatment decisions, parents and other caregivers play a key role in encouraging help-seeking behaviors and persuading young adults to prioritize their mental health needs. Considering that 67% of those aged 18 to 24 don’t seek treatment for depression or anxiety, this can make all the difference in long-term mental health outcomes. 

Here are five ways you can help a college student with their mental health and support them through such a tough transition. 

1. Educate Yourself About College Student Mental Health

About half of all mental health disorders will first show signs in the teen years, and 75% will present by the mid-20s. That makes college a specifically tenuous time for mental wellness and highlights the importance of knowing what mental health challenges your child may face at this time and what that experience might look like. 

2. Be a Safe Space

Young adults don’t respond well to judgment. Encourage your child to talk openly with you about their feelings, and provide a listening ear without trying to negate or “fix” the problem. 

3. Stress the Importance of Leisure

There’s a lot of competition to go-go-go in college, and that can leave little time for self-care, sleep, and stress reduction activities – all of which are essential for mental well-being. Talk to your child about the importance of leisure time and help them figure out how to balance that need with their academic responsibilities. 

4. Celebrate Achievements, No Matter How Small

Be your child’s biggest cheerleader, showing support and excitement for not just academic wins but all the other things that will help boost their confidence, morale, and self-awareness at this critical stage of life. 

5. Provide Resources as Needed

Some college students may need a weekend home to decompress. Others may need regular visits with a counselor or even a stay in a residential treatment facility. Make sure your child knows what’s available to them, and, when necessary, help them arrange for what they need. 

Is It Time to Seek Professional Help?

At Paradigm, we offer residential mental health programming designed for young adults. If you think your child would benefit from professional treatment for one or more mental health conditions, schedule a consultation to learn what options are available and how we can help your college student on their path to a strong recovery and an even brighter future.