Family concerned about a student

CAPS values students' autonomy in seeking therapeutic services. Therefore, we do not reach out to students who are not engaged in therapy. If you are worried about a K-Stater, follow the link below to complete a “Student of Concern” report which will be handled by Student Support and Accountability.

If you feel it requires immediate action please call 911 or KSUPD, the campus police, at 785-532-6412.

As a parent or family member, you may also want to know about the other mental health resources in the community. Psychology Today's Therapist Finder will give you the ability to see a list of providers in the Manhattan area, insurance companies the individuals are credentialed with, and their corresponding specialties.

Another local resource is MHKMentalHealth.org. This database of local providers includes information about current availability, and other information to connect you with the best possible match.

I'm concerned my student may be suicidal. What do I do?

I think my student may have an eating disorder. What do I say?

Suppose you think your student is restricting caloric intake, bingeing, vomiting, making repeated statements about weight or body image, using laxatives/diet pills/diuretics, or over-exercising. In that case, you can express care and concern about your student's behavior. Recognize that an eating disorder is a serious medical and psychological problem. Ignoring the disordered eating behavior will not make the behavior disappear. On the other hand, parents cannot effectively "do therapy" with their own family. Instead, encourage your student to seek assistance from trained professionals. Avoid overly focusing on your student's weight or looks. Avoid blaming them for the disorder. Instead, engage in an open dialogue about feelings. Anticipate that your student may be hesitant or resistant to seeking treatment. Recognize also that recovery is a process, and relapses may occur.

If you would like to consult further, feel free to contact us. CAPS can provide treatment for eating disorders, but eating disorders that require a higher level of care will be referred to the community or a treatment facility.

For more information, please visit How to Help Someone With an Eating Disorder in College from the Child Mind Institute.

Resources to help parents

We recognize that when a family member makes a decision to attend college, their choices affect you. We hope the following information gives you some options to support your family member from afar.

	Adjusting when your family member goes off to college - Whether it is the first child going to college or your partner returning to school, families have to adjust to the changes in their home life and schedules and the changes they see as their family member-student grows. This section may assist you in that process.
	When you are concerned about your student who is away at college, you can find out about warning signs that your student may have difficulties and steps you can take to get assistance.

For additional resources see:

LD Online: Articles and resources about learning disabilities; has a college section
College Confidential: Articles and discussion forums around all college-related topics
NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness: Awareness, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental illness
The Jed Foundation: Working to reduce emotional distress and prevent suicide among college students