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Balancing Social Life and Academics in college: Tips and tricks on how to help make this happen

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Written by Marc Lehman,

Owner of U ARE HEARD LLC

College is a time of exploration, growth, and new experiences. It’s also a time when students are tasked with juggling the demands of academic coursework with developing a social life. While it’s certainly important to achieve success in your studies, it’s equally important to maintain a balance with social activities and relationships. For parents of high school seniors, it can be a challenge to prepare your child for the rigors of college life, but with the right tools and strategies, your college-bound student can thrive both in and out of the classroom. In this blog post, we’ll explore some tips and tricks for maintaining a healthy balance between academics and social life in college.

Set Priorities:

As a college student, it’s important to prioritize your academic responsibilities and commitments. While it can be tempting to spend all your time socializing, it’s important to set aside adequate time to study, complete assignments, and attend classes. Before getting caught up in social activities, create a schedule or routine that incorporates dedicated study time. Students may also consider establishing a study group or setting academic goals to stay motivated and focused.

Engage in Time Management:

Time management is another key element in maintaining balance. Students must learn how to manage their time effectively to ensure that they meet deadlines, stay on top of assignments, and maintain healthy social lives. Creating a to-do list or using an app can help manage deadlines and keep track of tasks.

Join Organizations or Clubs:

Getting involved on campus can be a great way to strike a balance between academics and social life. Join clubs or organizations that align with your interests. Being involved can help you to meet like-minded people, develop leadership experience, and engage in new activities and experiences.

Plan Social Activities:

It’s important to make time for social activities as well as academic pursuits. Plan social activities and events to complement your academic responsibilities. For example, attending a movie or concert, or going for a hike, can provide a break from studying and helps students make connections and friendships.

Practice Self-Care:

Maintaining a balance can be stressful, and it’s important to prioritize self-care during this time. Focus on getting enough sleep, eating well, and finding ways to relax and manage stress. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being can help manage academic stress and contribute to a successful social life.

All in all, college is a transformative experience that requires students to adapt and develop new skills. Finding a balance between academics and social life can be challenging. However, prioritizing academics, engaging in proper time management, joining clubs, planning social activities, and prioritizing self-care can help students balance the demands of college life with a healthy social life. As always, for parents of high school seniors, ensuring that your child understands these skills and is able to apply them can help set them up for success on campus.

What can my high school senior do to prepare for college?

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Written by Marc Lehman,

Owner of U ARE HEARD LLC

Parents of high school seniors may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to prepare their child for college. As their child’s education journey is coming to a close, it’s natural to have some anxieties about what the future holds. However, there are some practical steps that parents and their seniors can take to make the transition to college easier. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some tips for seniors as they prepare for college and how parents can support their child throughout the process.

1) Stay Focused on Academics – High school seniors must maintain their focus on academics and finish strong in their final year of high school. Make sure your child is taking challenging courses where possible, as this will help prepare them for college-level coursework. Encourage them to stay ahead of their assignments and study every day to ensure they are prepared for tests and projects.

2) Plan Ahead – Planning is essential when it comes to transitioning to college. Help your child research colleges of interest and familiarize them with admission requirements and deadlines. Encourage them to visit colleges virtually or in-person and take part in tours, information sessions, and other events.

3) Develop Life Skills – College students must develop a wide range of life skills to be successful. Encourage your senior to take on more responsibility at home and school, such as working a part-time job, volunteering, or taking leadership roles in clubs. Encourage them to be independent with laundry, cooking, and budgeting.

4) Build Relationships – College is a great opportunity to make new friends and build connections that last a lifetime. Encourage your child to meet new people, join clubs or organizations, and attend events. Similarly, seniors should take time to strengthen relationships with mentors such as teachers, counselors, and coaches.

5) Practice Communication – College demands effective communication skills. Encourage your child to practice writing, speaking, and listening skills. They should know how to effectively communicate with roommates, professors, and other college staff.

As a parent of a high school senior, the best thing you can do for your child is to provide them with support and guidance throughout the college preparation process. By staying focused on academics, planning ahead, developing life skills, building relationships, and practicing communication, your child can make a successful transition to college life. Encourage your student to take advantage of the resources available and to ask for help whenever they need it. With these practical tips, your child can be well-prepared for the next phase of their educational journey.

Why Do Males in College Avoid Getting Help for Their Mental Health?

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Written by Marc Lehman,

Owner of U ARE HEARD LLC

When it comes to mental health, it’s an issue that affects both men and women alike, but the way they deal with it is different. According to research, male college students are more likely to avoid getting help for their mental health problems. This is alarming because untreated mental health problems could lead to a more severe issue. In this blog post, we will explore why male college students avoid getting help for their mental health and what parents could do about it.

Social Stigma Around Mental Health

In many societies, there is a social stigma attached to mental health. Men are expected to be tough and resilient, and admitting to having a mental health issue is often viewed as a weakness. In college, where social interactions are a significant part of the experience, a male student may not want to be seen as weak or vulnerable. This can make it difficult for them to seek help, even when they need it.

Lack of Awareness

Another reason why male college students avoid seeking help for their mental health is a lack of awareness. Many young men are unaware of the signs and symptoms of mental health problems. They may also not know where to go or who to talk to if they are going through a challenging time. Additionally, they assume that their mental health problems will just go away on their own, and they don’t need any external help.

Fear of Discrimination

In some cases, college students might avoid getting help for their mental health because of the fear of discrimination. They may worry that seeking help will result in discrimination or stigmatization from their peers, professors, or future employers. These fears can be such a significant barrier that students choose to endure the pain rather than face discrimination.

Financial Considerations

For some college students, the financial burden of seeking help for their mental health can deter them from seeking support. The cost of seeing a mental health professional, applying for medication, or taking time off from work or school can be high and, for some, unaffordable. Lack of access to affordable or free mental health services can discourage students from seeking help.

Lack of Resources and Support

Finally, male college students may avoid seeking help for their mental health because of a lack of resources and support. Counseling centers or mental health services may not be adequately advertised or available to students. Moreover, college students may not know how to identify reliable resources that can help support them with their mental health problems.

Male college students avoiding getting help for their mental health is a prominent issue. However, there are steps that can be taken to address this problem. Parents can help by ensuring their sons are aware of mental health problems, available resources, and services on campus. It is also necessary to encourage young men to seek support and manage the stigma surrounding mental health. By promoting an open and supportive environment, we can encourage male students to seek help for their mental health issues without fear or anxiety.

It’s time to support our male students’ mental health and create a more inclusive and supportive society.

What Freshmen in College Can Be Doing to Maintain Their Mental Wellness

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Written By Marc Lehman, Owner and Family Therapist at U ARE HEARD LLC

College can be a stressful experience for freshmen, and when combined with the pressure to perform and adapt to a new environment, it can be overwhelming for many. Proactively taking care of your mental health is as important as taking care of your physical health. As a parent, you play a critical role in supporting your child’s efforts to maintain a healthy mental state during the transition to college life. In this blog, we will discuss five practical actions that freshmen can take to protect their mental health.

Establish a support network: College life can be lonely without any friends or family around. Encouraging your child to get involved in groups or clubs can help them make connections with like-minded individuals who can offer support during difficult times. Students can also set up regular virtual calls with family and friends.

Prioritize self-care: College life can involve neglecting personal needs such as healthy sleeping habits, regular exercise, and good nutrition. Encourage your child to prioritize self-care by building healthy habits into their daily routines to boost their mood and reduce stress levels.

Practice mindfulness: College life is often accompanied by stress, anxiety, and uncertainty. Your child can learn to manage these feelings by practicing mindfulness. For example, taking a few minutes every day to sit quietly, breathe deeply, and be present in the moment can help them build resilience and find inner peace amidst the chaos.

Reach out for help: Many freshmen are hesitant to ask for help when they need it, fearing that their struggles may be perceived as a sign of weakness. Support your child in understanding that seeking help is a sign of strength. Encourage them to talk to a counselor or therapist when they feel overwhelmed, stressed, or depressed.

Manage academic stress: Academic stress is one of the most significant contributors to mental health issues among college students. Encourage your child to manage their academic stress by creating a study schedule, setting realistic goals, and prioritizing tasks. This can help them stay organized, focused, and in control amidst academic pressure.

The transition to college life brings with it many challenges, but by taking care of their mental health, freshmen can successfully navigate this exciting new chapter in their lives. As a parent, you can support your child by encouraging healthy habits, providing emotional support and encouraging them to seek help whenever they need it. If you can instill in your child the importance of self-care, mindfulness and time management, you will set them on a path that will serve them well beyond their college years.

Understanding Self-Stigma Among College Students with Mental Health Struggles

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Written by Marc Lehman

Family therapist and owner of U ARE HEARD

Having mental health issues is something  that affects many college students, but unfortunately, it is often overlooked. This is due in part to the stigma that surrounds mental health issues and the negative connotations associated with them. Unfortunately, this stigma can be even more pronounced among college students who are grappling with mental health issues themselves. This phenomenon is known as self-stigma – when individuals internalize negative messages about their own mental illness. It’s important for parents of college students to understand self-stigma and how it can impact their children’s mental health.

What Is Self-Stigma?

Self-stigma occurs when individuals internalize society’s negative attitudes towards mental illness and begin to believe those attitudes themselves. It manifests as feelings of shame, embarrassment, guilt, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to fear of seeking help or treatment because individuals fear being judged or labeled negatively by others. The result is that people may hide their mental illness from family members, friends, and healthcare professionals, which can lead to further deterioration of their condition.

How Can Parents Help?

Parents can play an important role in helping their college student children overcome self-stigma by showing acceptance and understanding of the situation and offering support without judgement. They should also provide resources such as mental health services on campus or in the community that they feel may be useful for their child. Additionally, it’s important for parents to talk openly about the importance of maintaining good physical and emotional wellbeing during college years and beyond. This conversation should emphasize that there is no shame in seeking help if needed – just like visiting a doctor for any other medical issue – so that your child knows you are supportive regardless of what they may be going through mentally or emotionally.

Self-stigma surrounding mental health issues can have a huge impact on college students who are struggling with these issues themselves. It’s up to parents to understand what self-stigma is and how it affects their children so they can best support them during this crucial time in life. Showing acceptance, providing resources, and emphasizing the importance of seeking help if needed are all ways that parents can help their kids navigate these difficult waters while maintaining good physical and emotional wellbeing overall.  By doing this, parents will go a long way towards helping their child overcome self-stigma related to mental health issues while ensuring they receive the care they need during this difficult transition period into adulthood.

Your Presence Does Matter!

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Written by Marc Lehman from U ARE HEARD LLC

Being a college student can be an overwhelming experience. There are so many tasks to juggle and responsibilities to fulfill. It is easy to feel like you are a burden to those around you, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. Here are some tips on what you can do when you feel like you’re a burden.

Seek Help from Others

If you need help with something, don’t be afraid to ask for it! Let your friends, family, or even professors know when you need extra support. They will likely be more than happy to help and offer advice on how best to tackle the issue. Don’t forget that there are also plenty of resources available on campus, such as academic advisors and counseling centers, that can provide additional assistance if needed.

Make Time for Self-Care

It is important not just to take care of your academics or social life but also yourself. Allotting time each day for self-care activities such as yoga, journaling, or even just watching a fun movie can be incredibly beneficial in reducing stress levels and boosting your mood. Making sure that your mental health is in check is essential for avoiding feelings of being a burden on others.

Focus on What You Can Do

When we feel overwhelmed by our own lives, it is easy to forget the good things we do every day—big and small alike! Whether it’s helping out another student with their assignment or bringing in snacks for a study group session, focusing on what we can do instead of what we cannot helps us recognize the positive impact we have on our community. Doing this will make us realize that rather than being burdensome, we can actually provide valuable contributions!

Feeling like a burden can be hard when managing all the responsibilities of being a college student. However, taking care of yourself and reaching out for help when necessary are two key steps towards overcoming these feelings of inadequacy. Focusing on what you can do instead of what you cannot will also remind you that your presence does matter—and that no matter how small the task may seem, it makes a difference! So don’t hesitate—start making changes today!

How to Prioritize Self Care During the Semester

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Written By Marc Lehman

Owner and Family Therapist at U ARE HEARD LLC

The semester has just begun, and it is normal to feel overwhelmed by all of the classes, studying, and extracurricular activities. Taking care of your mental and physical health should be a priority so that you can make it through this semester feeling good, both in body and mind. Here are some tips on how to prioritize self-care so that you can stay healthy during this academic year.

Schedule Time for You

It is important to set aside time each day or week that is specifically reserved for yourself. This could be something as simple as taking a 15 minute break after lunch or spending an hour at the gym. Carving out time for yourself will help you stay mindful about your own needs and give you the opportunity to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Stay Connected with Friends & Family

Staying connected with friends and family is more important than ever when it comes to self-care. It’s easy to get caught up in our own lives and forget that other people are there for us along the way. Make sure you reach out regularly via phone call, text message, Facetime or Zoom – whatever works best for you! Knowing that there’s somebody else out there who cares can help keep your spirits up during these long semesters.

Eat Well & Exercise Regularly

Eating well-balanced meals throughout the day can do wonders for both your physical and mental health. Eating healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats can help boost your energy levels while also keeping your brain sharp during long study sessions. Additionally, exercising regularly—either at home or outdoors—can give you an extra energy boost while also helping to clear your head when things get overwhelming. Exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous; even a simple walk around campus a few times per week can do wonders for both your physical and mental wellbeing.

It is incredibly important to prioritize self-care during this semester so that you can stay healthy in body and mind throughout this academic year. Taking time for yourself each day or week will allow you to take a break from all of the hard work ahead of you while staying connected with friends & family will remind you that there are people who care about you no matter what happens along the way. Finally, eating well and exercising regularly will ensure that your physical health remains strong while giving you an extra energy boost when needed most! With these tips in mind, we wish all college students luck on their academic journey this semester!

How to Help Your College Student Relax and De-Stress

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Written by Marc Lehman

Family therapist and owner of U ARE HEARD

As parents, we all want the best for our college students. We want them to excel in their studies, make new friends, and maintain good mental health. Unfortunately, college can be a very stressful time for young adults as they take on more academic responsibility than ever before. Fortunately, there are some easy methods that your student can use to relax and de-stress so that they can tackle their studies without feeling overwhelmed.

  1. Exercise: Exercise is one of the most effective methods for reducing stress. Exercise releases endorphins which help to ease tension and improve mood. Even if it’s just a quick jog around the block or some simple yoga poses, any form of physical activity can do wonders for improving mental health. Encourage your college student to make time for some regular exercise each week so that they can stay healthy and happy during this challenging period in their life.
  2. Get Enough Sleep: It’s no secret that sleep deprivation affects both physical and mental health negatively. Make sure your college student knows how important it is to get enough rest each night so that they have the energy and focus necessary to tackle their academic responsibilities during the day. If your student has difficulty getting enough sleep due to anxiety or stress, suggest strategies such as keeping a consistent sleep schedule or trying relaxation exercises before bedtime.
  3. Connect with Friends: Being away from home in a new environment can be isolating at times, but remind your college student that having a strong social support system is essential for managing stress levels while at school. Suggest that they reach out to old friends from high school or join a club on campus — whatever helps them feel connected and supported during this exciting yet challenging transition period in life!

College is an exciting but often stressful experience for young adults as they transition from high school into adulthood. As parents of college students, we want our kids to succeed academically but also mentally thrive during this chapter of their lives. By encouraging our kids to exercise regularly, get enough sleep each night, and connect with friends and peers who share similar interests or goals, we are helping them manage stress levels while at school so that they can make the most out of this unique opportunity!

How to Get Your College Student Ready for Second Semester

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Written by Marc Lehman

Owner of U ARE HEARD and Licensed Clinician

The start of the second semester of college is fast approaching and students are probably feeling the pressure. As a parent, it’s important to help your student get off on the right foot this semester so that they can finish strong. Here are some tips on how you can help get your child ready to start the semester off right.

**Set Goals and Priorities

Talk to your student about their goals for this semester and what their priorities should be. Help them decide which classes should take priority over others. Encourage them to set realistic goals and make sure they understand that it is ok if things don’t always go according to plan. Be sure to remind them that it’s important to stay organized and focused throughout the semester in order to reach their goals.

**Get Academic Support

It’s vital that your student gets the academic support they need in order to succeed in college. Look into what resources are available on campus, such as tutoring centers or group study sessions, and encourage your student to take advantage of these opportunities when necessary. If there aren’t any resources available on campus, look into online tutoring services or private tutors for additional assistance.

**Take Care of Their Health and Mental Health

Your student’s health and mental health should always be a top priority during any semester at college, but especially during the second semester when fatigue can really start to set in from all the studying and exams they’ve done over the course of the year. Encourage them to get plenty of rest, exercise regularly, and eat healthy meals throughout their day so that they have enough energy for all their studies and extracurricular activities. Also remind them not forget about taking time out just for themselves every now and then too!

Starting second semester off right is essential for college students wanting to end strong academically by finishing out their school year with good grades. As a parent, you can play an important role in helping your student achieve success by setting goals with them, providing academic support when needed, and making sure they’re taking care of themselves both mentally and physically throughout their second semesters at college. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to help ensure that your student starts second semester off on the right foot!

Understanding Anxiety and Depression in College Students

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Written By Marc Lehman, Owner and Family Therapist at

U ARE HEARD LLC

It can be difficult for parents to understand why their college student may be dealing with anxiety or depression. For many, this is a new experience outside of the home and navigating those emotions can be intimidating. Being aware of the most common reasons why students may become anxious or depressed while at college can help parents better support their children through this challenging time.

Pressure From Peers and Professors

The pressure to succeed—both academically and socially—can become overwhelming for some college students. The fear of not being accepted by peers, or the feeling that they are not measuring up to expectations from professors, can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, which in turn can cause depression and anxiety. Additionally, if students strive too much for perfection, their unrealistic expectations can also lead to stress, fear of failure, and even depression.

Lack Of Support System

In many cases, college students may feel isolated or alone as they are away from home for the first time. Without a strong support system in place it can be hard for students to find someone to talk to about their worries and concerns. This lack of emotional support can contribute significantly to feelings of loneliness and helplessness which could lead to depression or anxiety issues.

Financial Stressors

For many college students’ money is tight; tuition fees have risen in recent years leaving more families struggling with high costs. This financial burden on top of other expenses such as rent, food costs and textbooks could cause immense stress which may result in mental health challenges like anxiety or depression. Even something as small as not being able to afford the same clothes that others have could make a student feel inadequate or excluded leading them down a slippery slope emotionally speaking.

It’s important for parents to understand what might be causing their college student’s mental health challenges so that they can provide adequate support during this difficult time away from home. Being aware of the potential pressures from peers or professors, lack of a supportive network or family system, or financial difficulties will help both parents and students navigate these issues together successfully until graduation day! With proper understanding and compassion from family members especially parents, college students will have an easier time managing any depression or anxiety that arises during these formative years away from home.

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