Getting Settled – Safety and Self-Care For the College Student

September 16, 2024

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a crucial time to bring attention to an issue that affects millions of people regardless of gender. Domestic violence often happens behind closed doors, leaving victims isolated, afraid, and in need of support. This month serves as a reminder to raise our voices against domestic violence, educate ourselves and others, and support those affected by it.

1. Familiarize yourself with campus resources: Most campuses have counseling services, health centers and academic support, and campus security. Make sure you have these resources handy.
2. Get involved in something that interests you: This is a time when you can try out a club that sounds interesting and fun and meet new friends. Maybe student government sounds interesting or pickle ball or finding a job. There are so many things to do and ways to get involved in your new community,
3. Seek help early if you find yourself struggling either academically or with mental health. Professors usually offer office hours during the week for additional support or campuses have tutoring services. It is completely normal to feel homesick for the familiar and taking to a mental health profession can be helpful.
4. It is important to establish a routine early in the school year which includes some regular bedtimes and wake times. Explore the local on campus gym for exercise. Both improve mental wellbeing and decrease being overwhelmed.
5. Many are sharing space with a roommate, and it is important to communicate to each other about things openly and setting boundaries. Discuss things like sleep schedules, study habits, and self care responsibilities.
6. Parents discuss with your kids to have a time each week where you can facetime together. It is a balance giving them independence and continuing to support them in a different way.