Yesterday the devision of Student Affairs hosted their first webinar of 2026 with the New Student & Family Programs and Health Promotion offices. Our colleagues from Health Promotion talked about common experiences and stressors in the winter quarter, on campus resources to support students, and tips for families to support their college student from afar.
DU Well Coaching:
During the webinar, we highlighted our DU Well Coaching program, which plays a critical role in supporting students' overall well-being. This service offers personalized, one-on-one sessions with trained wellness coaches, aiming to help students set and achieve personal goals related to health, balance, and academic success. These sessions are tailored to empower students to make informed decisions about their health and wellness.
Tips for Supporting Your Student from Afar:
- Stay Connected: Regular communication is key. Keep in touch with your student through calls, texts, or video chats. However, it's important to strike a balance and give them space to foster independence. Clearing naming your expectations while also asking your student "how best can I support you?" can help to establish healthy systems of communication.
- Encourage Use of Campus Resources: Remind your student of the vast array of resources available to them at DU. Whether it's academic support or mental health services, encouraging them to seek help when needed is vital. Unsure where to start, explore filling our a referral for your student with out Student Outreach and Support office.
- Promote a Healthy Routine: Encourage your student to maintain a balanced lifestyle by sticking to a regular sleep schedule, eating nutritious meals, and engaging in physical activities. These habits can significantly affect their academic performance and mental well-being. Colorado is lucky to have ample sunshine and reminding students to sit in a room with big windows (like the fourth floor of the Community Commons) or prioritizing a walk around campus during daylight hours can help with the "winter blues."
- Offer Emotional Support: Let your student know you are there for them emotionally. Listen actively when they share their experiences and reassure them that ups and downs are part of this journey. Embrace open ended questions and asking if they're open to a suggestion before jumping to solve their problems.
- Be Patient with the Transition: Keep in mind that the transition back to school, especially during the colder months, can be challenging. Patience and understanding from you can provide immense comfort to your student.
