A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Student Well-Being at Boise State
As your student embarks on their exciting journey at Boise State University, you naturally want to ensure their well-being throughout their college experience. Boise State is committed to fostering a thriving student community, and that includes supporting their mental and physical health. But you, as a parent, also play a crucial role!
Navigating Health Services
- Knowing Where to Go and Making Appointments: Familiarize your student with the location of Health Services on campus. This makes it easier for them to access medical and mental health care when needed. Empower your student to take charge of their health by teaching them how to schedule doctor or counselor appointments at Health Services.
- Understanding Insurance: Help your student navigate their health insurance plan. Boise State’s Health Services can answer billing questions and help them understand their coverage.
- Know Your Vaccination Status: Understanding what vaccines your student has received and ensuring they are up-to-date is crucial. Work with them to find their immunization records or contact their previous healthcare provider. Up-to-date immunizations can help prevent the spread of illness and keep them healthy throughout the year.
- Patient Forms: Reviewing patient forms together beforehand can empower your student to understand their medical history, ask informed questions during appointments, and feel more confident navigating healthcare decisions.
Supporting Your Student's Mental Health
- Be Aware of Key Times: College semesters have predictable high-stress periods like October (after the initial excitement fades), midterms/finals (due to academic pressure), and post-break transitions (needing to re-adjust to routines).
- Open Communication, Not Fixing: College is a time for students to develop independence. Focus on genuine conversation. Instead of “Are you stressed?” try “Tell me about your classes this semester. What are you enjoying the most?” or “How’s your workload?”. Validate their feelings and acknowledge the challenges of college. Listen attentively without judgment and brainstorm solutions together. This fosters open communication and equips them with problem-solving skills for the future.
- Encourage Campus Resources: Remind your student about the many resources available at Boise State to support their mental well-being. Counseling Services, Student Outreach and Assistance, and Educational Access Center. If you’re concerned about your student’s well-being, learn more about when to submit a CARE Report.
Overall Well-Being Support
- Open Communication and Substance Use: College can involve experimentation, including alcohol. The Parent Alcohol Handbook is a great resource for starting the conversation. Focus on open-ended questions like “Tell me about your social life” and listen attentively. This builds trust and a safe space for discussing potentially risky behaviors.
- Scheduled Connections: Regularly connect with your student (calls, video chats, visits) for a natural conversation flow and to check on their well-being.
- Overall Wellness Focus: Remind your student that overall health impacts mental health. Encourage healthy eating, exercise, and sufficient sleep.