Supporting Mental Health
Sending your student to college brings with it many changes, some expected and some surprising. Preparing for these changes ahead of time can ensure your child has you as a resource as they begin this new journey.
Transitioning to College
Families are a huge part of a student’s support team even after they leave home. At Middlebury, we’re excited to have you as a partner.
A few tips for you and your student:
Make a communication plan.
- How often will you talk?
- Will you communicate via text, video chat, phone call?
Support your student in seeking out campus resources on their own.
It can be tough to hear about your student struggling, knowing the resources available but encouraging your student to seek them out on their own can foster a sense of accomplishment and make it easier the next time they need help with something.
Contact campus staff for consultation or in case of emergency.
Families are our partners. If you are concerned about your student or not sure where to send them for help you can contact their Commons Dean or call Public Safety (802-443-5911).
Maintaining Good Mental Health
Starting conversations about mental health can be hard at first or families may feel unsure about how being connected at a distance will go. Here are some resources to help start the conversation:
Starting the Discussion College and Your Mental Health, A Guide for Families, is a great resources from JED Foundation and National Alliance on Mental Illness. You can download the guide from the site.
Supporting Mental Health From a Distance
When should a parent intervene? provides helpful and actionable information from the Set To Go JED Program.
