For parents: Supporting Your Student’s Wellness

Parents play an integral role in their student’s wellness—both before and once they’ve moved to BU.

Having conversations with your student about topics like alcohol and drugs, mental health, and sexual misconduct can be challenging for both you and your student. However, talking with your student about their experiences and your expectations before moving to BU can be a powerful support for their independent decision-making.

Note: The term “parent” is used here with the intention to encompass all caregivers, family members and other trusted adults involved in students’ lives.

Talk about what BU might be like & ways to support mental health

For many students, moving to BU will be their first experience living away from home. It can be helpful to think through what their new campus life might look like and how they could support their mental health while at BU.

If your student has had mental health treatment in the past, connect with us a few weeks before classes begin to discuss referrals for treatment or to schedule an initial appointment.

Ask your students questions like:

  • What are ways that you could meet like-minded students at BU?
    There are almost 500 student organizations at BU, and a community for everyone. It’s common for students to struggle finding friends right away. Remind your student that this is normal and to explore BU’s robust list of student groups.

  • What’s been helpful in the past when you’ve felt stressed or overwhelmed?
    Think about how this translates to BU. If exercise has been helpful, you could learn about offerings at the Fitness & Recreation Center.

  • Who might you talk to if you’re having a hard time at BU?
    Let your student know that you’ll be available, but encourage them to think of others they can turn to for support. Resident Assistants (RAs), academic advisors, University chaplains, and professors can be great options. Mental health services are also available through SHS.

Talk about alcohol & other drug use

Many students choose not to drink or use other drugs, but will still be exposed to risky substance use situations in college. Talking with your student about substance use is important regardless of their choices. This conversation can prepare them to make informed decisions while at college.

Start conversations early
It’s important to start conversations about substance use before your student arrives on campus. Showing that you are open and available to talk with your student can help them feel supported to make decisions that support their wellbeing.

Talk about what’s important
Your student’s values are important. Ask your student about the values that are most important to them. Talk together about how substance use might impact or align with what matters to them.

Share your expectations
Discuss your expectations about your student’s class attendance, grades, safety, substance use, and their other goals.

Review BU’s policies
Review the University’s policies that are outlined in Lifebook together. Remember that decisions students make now can impact their long-term academic and wellbeing goals.

Here are additional resources to help you connect with your student about substance use from our online training vendor, Vector Solutions:

If your student might be struggling with substance use
Students can make a free and confidential appointment to speak with a mental health provider about their substance use.

Students who are in, or considering, recovery can reach out to the BU Recovery Community. This is a welcoming community of BU students in recovery from substance use–whether they’re in long-term recovery or are just starting their recovery journey.

Talk about sexual misconduct prevention

Talking about sexual misconduct while emphasizing facts and dispelling myths are important parts of prevention. Explore the Survivor Resources Library for help starting the conversation.