- Ensure your teen has copies of their medical records, including vaccinations and allergies.
- Encourage good mental health, such as being aware of counseling services offered by the college.
- Have your teen establish an exercise routine prior to leaving for college, which can include jogging, yoga, swimming, etc.
- Make sure your teen has a dental check-up and any necessary treatments or procedures are carried out.
- You need to have honest and open conversations about sex, contraception, and STDs with them.
As a parent, you have nurtured and watched your little one grow into a fine young adult. And as they gear up for their college journey, you start thinking of everything they will need to feel comfortable and confident as they embark on this new adventure. However, your priority should be ensuring that your child is healthy both physically and mentally. Below are health issues that you should resolve before your teen leaves for college.
Medical Records
One of the things that often gets overlooked when it comes to preparing for college is medical records. Ensure that your teen has copies of their medical records, including their vaccination history and any allergies. In case of an emergency, your child needs to have access to this information, and it can also make the process of getting a physical or check-up more manageable.
Mental Health
College can be a stressful and overwhelming experience for young people, and it’s essential that they have the support and resources they need to manage their mental health. Ensure that your teen is aware of the counseling services offered by their college and that they have a support system in place of people they can reach out to if they are struggling.
Exercise
Encourage your teen to develop an exercise routine before they leave for college. Exercise is a great way to manage stress and anxiety, and it can also help your child stay in shape while away from home. There are plenty of exercises your teen can try out, but here are the best ones they should definitely do:
Jogging
Jogging is an excellent form of cardiovascular exercise that can help your teen stay healthy and fit. It’s also a great way to explore their new college town, get to know the area better, and make friends with other students who are jogging too.
Yoga
Yoga is a great way to relax and de-stress after a long day of classes and studying. It’s also a way for your teen to stay in shape without having to go to the gym or do any strenuous exercises.
Swimming
Swimming is another excellent form of exercise and one that your teen should definitely try out. Swimming is an excellent way to stay in shape, relax, and have fun at the same time. It’s also a great way to make friends since most colleges will have a pool or facility with swimming pools where students can come together and socialize.
Strength training
Strength training is also essential for your teen. It helps build muscle and strengthens bones, which can help reduce the risk of injury. There are plenty of exercises that your teen can do at home or even at their college gym to get started with strength training.
By ensuring your teen gets enough exercise, you can help them stay healthy and fit while at college.
Dental Health
Good oral health is essential for overall wellness, and it’s important to make sure that your teen has a regular dental check-up before they leave for college. Ensure that their teeth are in good condition and that any necessary treatments or procedures are carried out before they start school.
For example, your teen might need tooth replacement solutions if they have missing teeth. If this is the case, they can get dental implants from a trusted dentist. Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth and a great way to boost your teen’s confidence when they start college. These implants look and feel like natural teeth, so your teen won’t have to worry about any awkwardness or embarrassment.
Sexual Health
College is often a time of exploration, and your teen might become sexually active during this phase of their life. It’s vital to have honest and open conversations with your child about sex, contraception, and STDs. Consider providing your teen with a pack of condoms, or suggest they visit their campus health center for birth control options and STD testing.
It is essential to ensure that your teen has all the necessary resources and support they need before leaving for college. Ensure your child understands how to manage their medical records, mental health, physical fitness, dental care, and sexual health.
Encourage them to exercise regularly by jogging or swimming to stay fit and healthy while away from home. In addition, provide them with contraception options so they can make informed decisions about sex when needed. By taking these steps now, you will be helping give your teen a strong foundation of good health as they embark on this new journey!
