Dear Terp Family member,
As the parent of a recent UMD grad and staff member who has worked on campus for more than 30 years, I understand firsthand how important health and wellbeing are to a student’s success in college. Knowing what resources are available is a critical first step in helping our students navigate challenging situations. The University has a large number of staff who are here to help your student manage whatever challenges they are facing mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
What we know, however, is that not all students have learned how to ask for help, so it’s important for them to have support networks in place to help remind them of the resources available to them on campus. You have an essential role in your student’s development and education, so it’s important for you to know the resources available to your student as well.
At the bottom of the page, you will find links to a broad list of campus resources and services that can help your student navigate through the challenges they may face during their time at UMD. I also want to offer some helpful questions to ask your student when they are facing difficult situations:
- What resources are available to help you deal with this situation?
- Who can you ask to help you overcome this challenge?
- What do you want to have happen?
- What are you doing to achieve that outcome?
- How is that going for you?
- What can you do differently?
Here are some suggestions for how you can support your student:
Promote Open Communication: Encourage open and honest conversations. Let your student know that you’re there to listen without judgment and that their feelings are valid.
Encourage Self-Care: Help your student understand the importance of self-care practices, including regular sleep, healthy eating, exercise, and relaxation techniques.
Foster Independence: While it’s important to be supportive, also allow your student the space to seek help independently. This can empower them to develop resilience and coping skills.
Educate Yourself: Understanding common health and wellbeing issues and the available resources can better equip you to provide informed support. Familiarize yourself with the signs of health and wellbeing concerns and the services available here at UMD.
We hope you will stay connected, and be informed. By maintaining open lines of communication, understanding the signs of mental health struggles, and providing access to helpful resources, you play a vital role in your student's support system.
Sincerely,
Matthew L. Supple, Ph.D.
Director, Family Engagement
He/Him/His
