Student Health Services  
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We all agree: your student's well-being is of utmost concern! We want him or her to flourish, to learn from mistakes, to experience triumphs and to stay healthy. There are ways you can help in that pursuit, too.

Wellness

Staying well can sometimes be a tall order for busy college students. Yet, it's vital to their success. So, consider:

  • taking emotional issues seriously and encouraging your student to talk with someone like a counselor, an RA, an advisor or a campus minister
  • touting the benefits of good sleep
  • sending healthy snacks
  • encouraging community service
  • suggesting ways to incorporate physical activity into their schedule

With your encouragement and support, students can stay well during their time at school.

Alcohol & Other Drugs

It's possible that your student will be tempted to experiment with alcohol and other drugs during his or her college years. You can help him or her make wise choices by:

  • talking openly about alcohol and other drugs
  • empowering him/her to say "no" when something doesn't feel right
  • learning all you can about alcohol, "date rape drugs" and other substances
  • not glorifying your own "youthful drinking days," if you had them
  • leaving the lines of communication open

There are no guarantees that your student will always make the smartest choices. Yet, your efforts are bound to have an impact.

A Web of Support

Students who are struggling can turn to:

  • the counseling center
  • the tutoring center
  • academic support services
  • student and professional residence life staff
  • advisors
  • health services
  • peer educators
  • career services
  • the learning disabilities coordinator
  • faculty and staff members
  • campus ministry
  • student affairs staff

Campus professionals are there because they truly want to work with college students and many have specific training to help them connect with this population. So, encourage your student to seek help rather than "toughing it out" alone. Asking for help is a sign of great strength-make sure your student knows that.

*The above information is from Paper Clip Communications©.