For recent high school graduates, going to college can be exciting but often comes with a good dose of stress.

College is typically a teen’s first real taste of being independent, but they still need help and guidance from parents. The key is striking the balance between prepping them and giving them room to figure things out on their own so they can become independent adults. 

We’ll cover some of the most common topics that create stress for new college students to help guide you in some conversations before they go. 

Getting Medical Help at College

Many teens are not used to setting up appointments or calling the doctor when they are sick. Make sure your college-bound kid understands their options for seeking medical care:

• Pediatrics West: They can continue to see their provider at Pediatrics West, even after they go to college. Make sure they have their login information for MyChart, and let them know they can message their provider, access immunization records, and request prescription refills on their own. Pediatrics West also offers telemedicine visits. 

• Immunizations: It’s helpful if your teen comes in for a preventive visit with your provider before leaving for college (it’s good practice for them to book the appointment themselves). They can also make sure they are up to date on their vaccines for meningococcal disease, HPV, pertussis and flu. 

• Medical Insurance: Talk to your teen about medical insurance and how to check if a local doctor or hospital is covered by their insurance. You can help them prepare a list of places, such as hospitals or the Student Health Center, that they can go to if they need in-person medical help. 

• Medical Records & Medications: If your teen has a medical history or takes medication, they will need to share that information if they seek medical help at a new clinic or hospital. They can access these records on MyChart so they can print them out and have it handy for appointments. For prescriptions, you should teach your teen where and how to get a prescription filled in their college town. 

• Chronic Health Conditions: If your teen has a chronic health condition that can turn into an emergency situation, make sure your teen knows they should talk with their roommate and Residential Advisor to inform them of the signs there’s a problem or what to do in an emergency. They also may need to share that information with the college health center staff.

College Drinking & Drug Use

Drinking and drug use on college campuses can be dangerous. Talk to your teen about the dangers of drinking alcohol and drug use and how it can impair judgment and open them up to major risks, such as accidents, fights, sexual assault, or date rape. 

Talk to your teen about how it’s best not to use drugs or drink until the legal age of 21. But if they do, to make sure they follow some rules: 

• Stopping after 1 or 2 drinks
• Don’t drive or let friends drive after drinking or using drugs
• Have a designated driver or call a ride
• Do not drink with people you don’t know
• Never leave your drink unattended

Make sure they know that if they ever become concerned about their alcohol or drug use, they can speak to a counselor or set up a telehealth visit with their provider at Pediatrics West. This is also a good time to remind your teen that they can always come to you for help. 

Mental Health Support on Campus

Colleges often have a lot of resources available to new students to support them with stress and the transition to college. There are often support groups or student services available.

It’s normal for students to have days where they feel homesick, sad, or lonely. If feelings of sadness or the ability to enjoy themselves lasts longer than 2 weeks, your student should seek help. They can contact Pediatrics West, their college health center, or their campus counseling center.  

Making Friends at College

Fitting in and making friends can be a big source of stress for new college students. But, friends made in college often become close friends for life.

A good way to find friends is to seek out clubs, sports, or organizations to find people with similar interests. 

Roommates also can make great friends. But they also can be a source of stress or frustration. It helps to talk things over early with a roommate to set some guidelines, such as cleaning, bedtimes, and music use. If your teen can’t get along with their roommate, they should speak with their Resident Advisor. 

Talk to your Teen about College Stress

Check in with your college-bound kid as they prepare to leave for college. Talk to them about how they are feeling and what are they worried about. The most important thing for you to do is just to listen. Instead of trying to problem solve for them, try to help them talk out and figure out some solutions so they can take the lead. 

Continue to touch base with your student after they leave for college. Check in often during  their first month when they may be more lonely and missing home. It’s important for them to hear you are there for them and available if they need you.