Ongoing Mental Health Support Key for College Students

• By Nancy Treviño, Ph.D.
• August 15, 2024
• Health

Recent state legislation now mandates that student orientation for college include a tour of a campus’s Student Wellness Center and information about mental health resources available for students. This is a positive step, but it's only the beginning.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 12 to 24.

In May, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center collaborated with the Texas Suicide Prevention Collaborative to present the Texas Higher Education Suicide Prevention Spring Summit.

One goal of the summit was for college campus administrators from across Texas to develop relationships and share ideas to increase access to mental health services and other supports for a growing number of college students experiencing mental illness.

As the director of the Texas Tech Mental Health Initiative, I’ve spent years working to improve mental health resources and support for our community. With the start of a new academic year, I want to share some important insights for parents, grandparents, caregivers or guardians and students about navigating the mental health challenges which often accompany the transition to college life.

First, it’s crucial to understand that this transition is a significant one. Young adults are suddenly responsible for managing their own schedules, finances and health in ways they’ve never had to before. Their brains are still developing, particularly in areas related to long-term planning and consequences.

Roles as caregivers shift from authority figures to supportive mentors who need to be there to listen and guide young adults, but also must also allow them to learn from their experiences — even the difficult ones.

Start by having ongoing conversations with your young adult child about their mental well-being. Just as you might periodically ask about their classes or remind them to eat well, make it a habit to check in about their stress levels and coping strategies.

It’s not just about knowing where the counseling center is. Also familiarize yourself and your student with the various resources available in your community and crisis hotlines such as 9-8-8 and that of your local mental health authority. There also are apps for self-help strategies —  TAO Connect, Schmoody and My3app.org, to name just a few.

Social connection is a critical factor in student success and mental health. Encourage your students to get involved in campus organizations which align with their interests and values.

In West Texas, there are unique challenges, ranging from the intense heat to feelings of isolation in our rural communities. But we also work together to help our neighbors. The Texas Tech University System and community partners such as StarCare Specialty Health System offer a range of mental health services. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you or your student needs support.

For students who may not have strong family support, there are other options. Peer mentors, resident advisors and faculty members can all serve as that crucial “caring adult” in your life. Seek out these connections. They can be lifelines during difficult times and can assist you with finding appropriate services and supports.

To parents reading this, I want to acknowledge that letting go is hard. But remember that your role is evolving, not ending. You’re transitioning from being the problem-solver to being a guide who helps your young person develop their own problem-solving skills. Ask questions like, “Who could you talk to about this?” or “What resources are available to help with this situation?” This approach builds resilience and independence.

As someone who grew up in Lamesa and came to Lubbock for college, I understand firsthand the challenges and opportunities our region presents. My work with the Texas Tech Mental Health Initiative is deeply personal — it’s about helping the community where I grew up and raised my own children, who are now young adults themselves. We are all in this together.

The college years are a time of immense growth, change, and yes, sometimes struggle. But with open communication, utilization of available resources, and a community-wide commitment to supporting our young people, we can help ensure that these years are also a time of discovery, resilience and flourishing mental health.

 

Nancy Treviño, Ph.D., is the director of the Texas Tech Mental Health Initiative at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.