Did you know that the average age of onset for most mental health disorders is 18-24? Even if your child never experienced mental health concerns in the past, that doesn’t mean they will be immune to them once they’re in college. As a parent of a legal “adult,” it can be difficult to know how to support your child during this stage of life, especially if they are living away from home for the first time and experiencing a brand new sense of independence.
Protecting Your Child’s Mental Health: What Can Parents Do?*
- Keep the lines of communication open.
- Know the signs and symptoms of emotional disorders as well as the warning signs for suicide
- Encourage your child to go to the counseling center if one or both of you think it is necessary.
- Find out whom to call at the college if you’re concerned about your child’s emotional well-being.
- Understand the circumstances under which the college will notify you regarding your child’s mental health.
- Sourced from the The Jed Foundation.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
FOR IMMEDIATE HELP, call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800.273.8255
*Lifeline Crisis Chat is available 2pm-2am EST*
Veterans/Military: Press 1
SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF TEEN SUICIDE | FOR PARENTS
This is a comprehensive web resource for parents who are concerned about their teens. Here, parents can find information on warning signs, resources for helping their children, and information on mental health, including the video for parents about teen suicide, “Not My Kid.”
MENTALHEALTH.GOV
This government website provides information and resources on a variety of mental health concerns, including suicidal behavior.
TAKE 5 TO SAVE LIVES
Take a few minutes of your day to learn about and understand the warning signs of suicide. Spending just five minutes learning about warning signs of suicide could help you recognize the signs that someone needs help and ultimately, save lives.
DRUGREHAB.COM
Connect with the many resources and tools available to help overcome addiction and pursue lifelong recovery.
