PARENTS
Advice
“It is critical to promote the importance of having fun at university”
should be able to recognise; these include losing interest in hobbies or life in general and becoming distant and withdrawn. Many institutions have easily accessible and confidential in-house counselling services. Mental health advisers can also offer reasonable adjustments such as extra time in exams, extensions on deadlines and specialist mental health mentor support. In addition to services offered through
university, there are a number of alternative options: Nightline is a student-run service that offers confidential support via phone and email; Student Minds is a mental health charity and has a website offering advice on a wide range of mental health issues. Talking to someone, whether it’s a friend, counsellor or doctor, can be an instant sense of relief. Making friends and socialising can also improve mental wellbeing. It is critical to promote the importance of having fun at university – there are a number of societies and clubs available, and it’s a good idea to have a look at these beforehand. Parents can also lend a hand by sending food parcels or care packages, staying in touch and reminding them of when they are next home, and even visiting them occasionally, especially if they’ve opted to live far away. University is a significant milestone
for your family. It’s an adventure, and like all adventures it comes with challenges. It is normal for students and parents to sometimes feel slightly overwhelmed when it comes to university life, but with a strong support network and open communication, all students and families can prosper. Reflect on how much work it took to get your child there, pop the champagne and celebrate this achievement together.
In the UK, Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123 or at
jo@samaritans.org. You can contact the mental health charity Mind by calling 0300 123 3393 or visiting
mind.org.uk
Scarlett Clark is the award-winning CEO and founder of Smart Girl Tribe, a leading female empowerment organisation in the UK, and the Smart Girl Tribe podcast
smartgirltribe.com
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WhatLive.co.uk Summer 2020
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