MSU Counseling Center Tips for Parents
E
ven when you’re not seeing your son or daughter regularly, many parents can hear a difference in the way they sound on the phone — changes in mood, energy, or tone of voice.
The Counseling Center is available to help with your concerns about your son or daughter through the process of consultation. During a consultation with a member of our staff, usually by phone, we listen to your concerns and offer advice or recommendations about what you can do. Generally, we assist you in working further with your student rather than contacting your student ourselves. In doing so, we are respecting your Morganite’s right to privacy and self-determination in seeking psychological assistance.
Change Is Normal Your son or daughter will change over the next four years. Sometimes it is a gradual change and other times it feels as if it happens overnight. You might begin to notice changes in their vocational, social, or personal choices in behaviors. The person who has been interested in pursuing a
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career in medicine their entire childhood might suddenly develop an interest in the arts. As they transition into adulthood, your student becomes more independent and more competent in new areas.
When To Consider A Consultation Look for significant changes in your student’s behavior, including appearance, lower academic functioning, and level of energy or interest. Dramatic changes in mood or behaviors such as withdrawing from social activities, unusual agitation, increased use of alcohol or drugs, missing a lot of classes, or unexplained outbursts or crying spells might all be indicators of a mental health concern. Explicit references to suicide or negative thoughts (e.g. “What is the point of being here”) might also necessitate a consultation with the counseling center.
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