Conversation Guide for Parents and Families
by University Health Services
Alcohol, Mental Health, and Sexual Violence
When your student enters college, your relationship will change. Now is a great time to begin or continue conversations about health and wellbeing in college. You may already be talking with your student about alcohol use, sexual violence, and mental health. It’s important to continue having those conversations.
Parents and families can contribute to these feelings of support through conversations about important health topics. While conversations about alcohol use, sexual violence, and mental health can be difficult, they make a difference to your student and how they navigate campus. All students deserve a safe, welcoming place to learn, grow, and succeed. As partners in your student’s success, University Health Services invites you to join us in these important conversations to help to make UW–Madison a campus where students can thrive.
Conversation Tips and Resources
For some families, it can be helpful to have talking points to start the conversation. Your relationship with your student is unique, and we encourage you to approach these topics in ways that feel authentic, honest, and empathetic.
Alcohol and Drugs
You can help empower your student to think proactively about their health and safety and the health and safety of their community.
Mental Health
You play a vital role in telling your student that you would support their decision to seek help and learning what resources are available.
Sexual and Relationship Violence
Having open conversations about consent can support students in being comfortable expressing needs and boundaries, which supports healthy, respectful relationships.