The college application process can be stressful and overwhelming for many students, especially in the midst of a global pandemic. However, there are ways to help them cope and thrive during this challenging time. In this article, you will learn some practical tips on how to best support students' mental health during the college application process.
The first step to support students' mental health is to understand their concerns and empathize with them. Some common worries that students may have include: academic performance, test scores, essay writing, financial aid, admission decisions, and future plans. Listen to their fears and frustrations without judging or dismissing them. Validate their feelings and acknowledge their efforts. Try to avoid comparing them to other students or pressuring them to meet unrealistic expectations.
First and foremost take a few deep breaths so that you are calm and well regulated before responding to your student. So often in an attempt to help, we react rather than listen. We tell students why things will be fine or explain why they should not worry. Instead, try listening very carefully with the goal of understanding their emotional experience fully. Ask questions while expressing empathy and support. Normalize their feelings while assuring them that most students struggle.
The second step to support students' mental health is to encourage them to practice self-care. Self-care is the act of taking care of one's physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It can help students reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance resilience. Some examples of self-care activities are: getting enough sleep, eating healthy, exercising regularly, meditating, relaxing, and having fun. Remind students to prioritize their needs and set boundaries. Help them find a balance between work and play.
A great way to support students' mental health is to provide them with resources and tools before they struggle. There are so many great options. Brainstorm with them about what might fit for them. Perhaps they might want to use an app for meditating and/or breathing. Having a therapist or coach is typically very helpful. Identify self-care strategies that are a good match for the students' personality, lifestyle and interests!
The third step to support students' mental health is to provide them with resources and guidance. Resources are the tools and information that can help students navigate the college application process more effectively and efficiently. Some examples of resources are: college websites, counselors, mentors, tutors, books, and online platforms. Guidance is the advice and feedback that can help students make informed and confident decisions. Some examples of guidance are: brainstorming, editing, reviewing, and coaching. Offer students the resources and guidance they need, but also respect their autonomy and choices.
The fourth step to support students' mental health is to foster a positive mindset. A positive mindset is the attitude and belief that one can overcome challenges and achieve goals. It can help students cope with stress, boost motivation, and increase happiness. Some ways to foster a positive mindset are: expressing gratitude, celebrating achievements, learning from failures, and reframing challenges as opportunities. Inspire students to focus on their strengths, values, and passions. Help them see the college application process as a learning and growth experience.
The fifth step to support students' mental health is to build a supportive network. A supportive network is the group of people who can offer emotional, social, and practical support to students during the college application process. It can include family, friends, teachers, counselors, mentors, and peers. A supportive network can help students feel less isolated, more connected, and more confident. Encourage students to reach out to their network when they need help or encouragement. Help them create a safe and positive environment where they can share their thoughts and feelings.
The sixth and final step to support students' mental health is to seek professional help when necessary. Professional help is the assistance and intervention that can be provided by qualified mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors. Professional help can help students address and treat serious mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts. Recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health problems and refer students to appropriate services. Do not hesitate to seek professional help if you or a student is in crisis or danger.
The college application process is always hectic. Many times, students are so caught up with getting the highest SAT or ACT scores that they lose sight of the fact that those test scores are just one component of their overall portfolio. In my case, I didn't have the highest SAT score. After three attempts, I only ended up with a 1010 score. However, I still felt confident because I had a strong academic transcript, made the honor roll every year in high school, and took part in extracurricular activities. All those things revealed that I was a well-rounded student, which is ultimately what colleges and universities care about the most. In short, we must help students understand that SAT/ACT scores aren't the end all, be all.