Pro Tips for College

Scituate FACTS is constantly looking to the research to see what works to reduce substance related problems so we can share the best practices with our community. We know that freshman year of college is a particularly high risk time for binge drinking and related negative consequences, so we have pulled together takeaways from the experts for families to consider as their child makes the transition to adulthood. While parents may think there is nothing they can do about risky drinking at this age, we have learned otherwise. Parent communication can still have a positive impact. Specifically, research confirms that continuing to talk openly with young adults, and knowing about their friends and activities can mitigate all kinds of risk.

1. Clearly state your expectations about substance use.The best outcomes are achieved when the conversation takes place during the summer, before the student leaves for college. Surprisingly, when parents clearly express their disapproval of alcohol use, rates of college drinking are reduced - whether or not a child is already drinking. So, having the talk this summer is recommended for everyone.Not just any talk. There is an evidenced-based approach to having this talk which indicates a conversational style and specific fact-sharing.  In order to prepare for this important conversation, the Scituate FACTS Coalition has purchased a parent handbook for families of recent grads. Please find a PDF A Parent Handbook for Talking with College Students About Alcohol by Rob Turrisi, Ph.D., linked below!
   

2. Find out about the school’s emergency notification policies. Perhaps the biggest surprise for parents is the realization that schools will not be communicating with them regarding grades, absences, or even police incidents. FERPA, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, protects a student’s right to privacy concerning their academic records and information. Student privacy prevails, even when parents are paying for college. Some schools may allow your child to sign a waiver to permit access. Search student privacy on their website to learn more. HIPPA protects medical information (whether or not they are a student). The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act is a federal law protecting patient privacy for anyone over age 18. That means doctors and other clinicians may not be able to discuss a student’s health with a parent or caregiver.Check with the college’s Health Services department in advance to learn about HIPPA Authorization forms, Release of Information forms and Emergency Contact protocols. You and your child may make arrangements in advance to be notified in the event of a medical emergency, and may also consider establishing a parent as a Medical Power of Attorney to make medical decisions, through a separate document.
   

3. Make a plan for regular communication.Some families establish a schedule to check in with their student, such as a Sunday afternoon phone call or FaceTime. These conversations should not be all about drinking, rather friendly chats about roommates, classes, and life in general. These days, texting makes staying in touch super easy. Parents are reminded to find a new balance, and also to make sure to hear their child’s voice on a somewhat regular basis.Inexperienced drinkers will benefit from a “booster” version of the summer talk during the first few weeks of college, when these students will likely be exposed to high risk behaviors around big football games or events.
   

4. Do extra prep for students with mental health or substance use disorders.If your child is already managing a behavioral health challenge, remember that transitions can be difficult. There are additional steps to take to transition care away from home. “Set to Go” from the Jed Foundation is an excellent resource.
   

5. Call the college if you are concerned. Parents and caregivers can always reach out to share physical or mental health concerns with healthcare providers, even if the providers can’t share information back without a release.  Never worry alone.
   
   Whether your child will be living at home, in a dorm, or living independently, they will soon be outside of the structure and safety net that high school has provided.  Asking advice from other families  who have been through this transition, and seeking out resources and support if you have concerns, are still good ideas. And, while it’s appropriate to “let go” in many respects, research suggests that parent-child communication can positively support your emerging young adult through the next chapter. Scituate residents of all ages may contact the Manager of Social Services, Erica Souris, LICSW, for free, confidential assistance navigating mental health support and other resources: esouris@scituatema.gov. Substance use treatment and support resources are listed on the Get Help page of this website. And, community members are always welcome to reach out to a trusted adult at Scituate High School if you have questions or concerns.