Information for Parents

Dear Parent,

As you are preparing and planning for your student to begin college, an area you might not have yet considered relates to your student's mental health. In some instances a number of aspects associated with beginning college may increase a student's vulnerability, such as the transition to being more independent, the need to form new relationships, the lack of structure and irregular sleep schedules, academic pressures, and availability of alcohol and other substances. These various aspects can cause the onset, relapse, or worsening of some psychological illnesses. Please talk with your student about finding a healthy balance that includes academics, building friendships, good nutrition, and keeping a regular sleep and exercise schedule. Discuss the risks of engaging in binge drinking or other drug use. If you observe or sense that your student is encountering difficulties, encourage addressing the problem as soon as possible.

The city of Whittier is struggling with a significant lack of psychiatric services. It is very challenging for people with mental health disorders to obtain timely and effective treatment from a psychiatrist, particularly within a close geographic range of the college.

If your student has experienced emotional difficulties in the past or has been in treatment for a psychological disorder, careful planning is particularly important during this transition. For example, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and alcohol and drug abuse are all common problems that need particular consideration prior to your student’s starting school. Planning should begin by talking with your student and consulting with the current or past treatment provider (therapist, psychiatrist, or family doctor).

Discussion should include the following:

  • Strategies to reduce the risk of relapse
  • Early recognition of symptoms of recurrence and resources to seek help
  • Plan for ongoing treatment needs; arrange appointments with the current provider in advance to occur during visits home
  • Plan to include a local physician (possibly a Health Center physician) to follow any medication the student is taking
  • Insurance coverage with an adequate mental health plan

Note: Be sure to complete the Student Health and Immunization form and submit it before your student arrives on campus.

The college Health Services and Counseling Services are closed during the summer from June 15, re-opening August 15. If you would like to contact the directors of those services as part of your planning for your student, please do so with those dates in mind. Colleen Leidy, R.N., is director of Health Services and can be reached at 562-907-4200 extension 4400. Shikana T. Porter, Ph.D., is director of Counseling Services and can be reached at 562-907-4239.