Health 101: What Every Teen Needs to Know Before Heading to College

As your teen's college departure day approaches, preparing them involves more than just packing bags and organizing dorm supplies. This milestone in their life comes with a host of new responsibilities and challenges that extend beyond academics. One crucial area often overlooked is healthcare. Amid the excitement and chaos of getting ready for college, it's easy to forget that your teen will now be responsible for managing their own health and well-being, often for the first time. 

Understanding and managing healthcare needs are not just necessary but essential skills that can significantly impact your teen's well-being and success in college. Without proper preparation, even minor health issues could quickly snowball into major obstacles, potentially derailing their physical health, mental well-being and academic performance. Ensuring they have this knowledge will not only empower them to make informed decisions and seek appropriate care when needed but also provide you with a sense of reassurance and confidence in their ability to handle these aspects of college life. 

Understanding Health Insurance

Ensure your teen understands the basics of your family's health insurance plan. This includes knowing which services are covered, how to find in-network providers and the process for handling out-of-network care. Many insurance plans also offer online portals where your teen can easily access this information. 

Equip your teen with a copy of their insurance card and a list of important contact numbers, including your insurance company's customer service line. This will be vital if they need to verify coverage or ask for assistance. 

Navigating Campus Health Services

Most colleges have an on-campus health center that provides a range of services, from routine check-ups to emergency care. These services may include general medical care, mental health services, sexual health services, immunizations and health education. Have your teen visit the health center during orientation to understand the services offered, operating hours and how to make appointments. 

While campus health centers are convenient, they might not handle all medical needs. Teach your teen how to identify when it's necessary to seek off-campus medical care such as when their symptoms persist, worsen or are beyond the scope of the health center's services. Also, they should be taught how to locate nearby clinics or hospitals in case of emergencies. 

Mastering Medication Management and Prescriptions

If your teen routinely takes medication, ensure they know how to refill their prescriptions. This might involve transferring prescriptions to a local pharmacy near campus, which can be done by contacting their current pharmacy and requesting a transfer to the new one. Alternatively, they can use a mail-order service. Discuss the process of requesting refills and handling emergencies if they run out. 

Educate your teen on the importance of taking medications as prescribed. Mismanagement can lead to health issues that could hinder their academic performance and overall well-being. Encourage them to set reminders if necessary. 

Understanding Basic First Aid and Self-Care

Pack a basic first-aid kit for your teen, including items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, over-the-counter pain relievers and other essentials. Teach them how to use these items and handle minor injuries or illnesses. 

Help your teen recognize the symptoms of common illnesses like colds, flu and allergies and when it's appropriate to seek medical help. This knowledge can prevent minor issues from becoming major health concerns. 

Prioritizing Mental Health in a Stressful Environment

Mental health is as important as physical health, especially with the stress and pressure of college life. Ensure your teen knows about campus mental health resources, which may include counseling services, support groups and crisis hotlines. These resources are designed to provide emotional support, help manage stress and address mental health concerns. 

Teach your teen stress management techniques such as exercise, mindfulness and time management skills. Encourage them to maintain a healthy balance between academics, social activities and personal time. 

Drinking Responsibly and Staying Safe

Discuss the realities of alcohol consumption at college. Teach your teen the importance of drinking responsibly, understanding their limits and recognizing the signs of alcohol poisoning. Encourage them to always have a plan for getting home safely and to never leave their drinks unattended. 

Ensure your teen is aware of the legal drinking age and the potential consequences of underage drinking. Stress the importance of making smart choices and the impact that legal issues could have on their future. 

Practicing Safe and Respectful Relationships

Educate your teen on the importance of safe sex practices, including the use of condoms and other contraceptives to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies. Make sure they know where to obtain these supplies, whether at the campus health center or a local pharmacy.

Discuss the importance of consent in all sexual activities. Ensure your teen understands that consent must be clear, enthusiastic and ongoing. Emphasize respect for their own boundaries and those of others. 

Maintaining Health and Wellness

A balanced diet and regular physical activity are vital to maintaining good health. Discuss the importance of healthy eating and how to make nutritious choices in dining halls. Encourage them to incorporate physical activities into their routine, whether joining a gym, participating in sports or simply walking around campus. 

Adequate sleep is crucial for physical and mental health. Discuss the importance of maintaining a regular sleep schedule as it helps regulate the body's internal clock and promotes better sleep quality. Creating a conducive sleep environment, such as keeping the room dark, quiet and cool, also can improve sleep quality. Avoiding all-night study sessions and excessive screen time before bed also can help improve sleep quality. 

Knowing What to Do and Who to Call

Ensure your teen has a list of emergency contacts, including family members, primary care physicians and local emergency services. Discuss the importance of keeping this information accessible at all times. 

Equip your teen with a summary of their medical history, including any chronic conditions, allergies, past surgeries and vaccinations. This information can be critical in case of an emergency. 

Equipping your teen with essential healthcare knowledge before they leave for college is a crucial step in preparing them for independent living. By giving them the tools and information they need to manage their health, you're not only ensuring their well-being but also helping them develop a sense of responsibility and confidence. This will empower them to navigate college life more smoothly, handle any health issues that arise and focus on enjoying their college experience to the fullest. So, take the time to have these important conversations with your teen--it's an investment in their future success and happiness.