Leaving home and heading off to college in the fall is an exciting time for young people. College is often the first time students are making independent choices about their free time, what and when they eat, self-care, sleep and completing their class work without mom or dad’s direction.

With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget that these new choices and responsibilities bring challenges that can be difficult to navigate all at once. Staying healthy is key to being successful at school and something young people must learn to manage. Parents can help by checking in regularly, listening without judgement and making sure their son or daughter knows where to find help when needed. 

Below is a list of some of the most common health concerns students experience.

Mental Health Issues

Students may experience mental health issues over academic demands or performance, burnout, money problems, relationships, homesickness or a feeling of not fitting in. Depression, stress and anxiety are common as students navigate their independence. They may struggle to adjust to a new life away from home where they may not have a good support network established.

Sleep and Self-Care

With their newfound independence, course load and social activities, many students don’t make sleep a priority. A lack of quality sleep over time can affect their mood and their ability to concentrate and learn, as well as their overall health. Encourage your student to establish good sleep hygiene by setting up a regular bedtime and wake time, limiting caffeine after noon, avoiding alcohol and limiting screen time an hour or so before bed. 

Seasonal Illnesses

Send your student off to college with a basic medical care kit so they can easily take care of cuts or scrapes, headaches, fever or the occasional upset stomach. Hopefully, parents have had their child follow a preventative care plan that they can continue, such as regular eye and dental exams and vaccinations. 

Nutrition

Now is not the time to skip meals or overindulge in processed foods. Encourage students to get plenty of protein, fruits and vegetables every day and to stay well hydrated. A nutritionally deprived body does not function as well or stay healthy. Overconsumption of caffeine can adversely affect sleep, leading to irritability and trouble focusing on schoolwork.

Alcohol and Drugs

Students may find themselves in situations where they must make decisions about drug or alcohol use. As a parent, keep conversations judgement free while encouraging college students to make informed decisions that support their health and wellbeing. 

Healthy Relationships

Students will meet many new people and form new relationships. It is important that they have an understanding of the importance of clear communication, boundaries, consent and sexual health. Being able to have sensitive conversations free of judgement makes it more likely your son or daughter will come to you for advice. 

Exercise

Exercise is key to staying fit and healthy, sleeping better, reducing stress and just having fun. Encourage students to remain active or participate in intramural sports if they do not participate in collegiate sports. 

These are the main health-related resources located on the campus of Arkansas State University, many of which are free to students:

Fitness

Located in the heart of campus at A-State, The Red W.O.L.F. Center is a state-of-the-art fitness center with group classes, intramural and club sports and plenty of space to train or just have fun. The facility includes a climbing wall, running track, group fitness space and fitness equipment. The intramural sports program provides an opportunity for students, along with faculty and staff, to participate in more than 25 activities such as soccer, pickleball, softball and more. Group classes feature spin, yoga or H.I.I.T. training. Best of all, membership is free for all A-State students. Hours are Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Going to the gym also provides much-needed stress relief and social time, as well as keeping students fit.

Medical

The NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine operates a multi-specialty clinic on the edge of campus that provides comprehensive care at a discounted rate for currently enrolled part-time or full-time students. Services are mostly covered by health insurance, but some services like lab tests may have an additional fee. Primary care services offered include minor illnesses, injury treatment, immunizations, STI testing, pregnancy testing, birth control and physical exams. The clinic is located on Red Wolf Boulevard next to the football stadium. Hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Mental Health

While college can be fun and exciting, sometimes the pressure to perform in a new situation creates stress, anxiety or depression. At some point, most students struggle with homesickness or just feeling like they don’t fit in. The Wilson Counseling Center, located in the middle of campus, offers various services such as mental health screening, individual therapy, group sessions, online self-help guided programs and workshops available by Zoom or in person. The center can also help students access resources for food, housing, transportation and more. Counseling services at A-State are free and confidential for all students enrolled at A-State and NYITCOM on the Jonesboro campus.