For Parents of Students in Crisis:

Student Counseling Center

The transition to college is exciting and stressful for most students, as they adjust to an increase in independence, which often coincides with increased responsibilities. For many, it is also their first experience living away from home. Most students can benefit from speaking to an unbiased professional about personal problems or mental health at some point during their college career.

It is not uncommon for mental health concerns – especially anxiety and depression – to begin to emerge during the college years. For students with underlying diagnoses or a history of trauma, the transition to a university setting can bring about an exacerbation of symptoms. In recent years, universities nationwide have seen an increase in more severe symptoms, such as suicidal thoughts, in the college population. Student have also become increasingly comfortable sharing their mental health concerns. Even though this decrease in stigma is a positive development, parents can understandably feel overwhelmed when their son or daughter experiences mental health concerns. 

How Can I Help My Child from a Distance?

Stay in Touch:

Let your daughter or son know that you are there and available to talk about their normal everyday life as well as their struggles.  Find out from them how often they want you to check-in,

Be realistic about academic achievement and grades:

UT Tyler attracts bright students from all over the world who may not have experienced the level of academic challenge that they will experience in a university setting.  They will need to learn to work and study independently and consistently and will be asked to develop a deeper understanding of concepts. Sometimes it takes time to adjust, and even our brightest students can have a challenging first semester that results in less than optimal grades

Encourage Resiliency:

The university is committed to your student's success and has many helpful resources.  If your student faces challenges, use the opportunity to encourage learning from these challenges, reaching out to resources, and continuing to move forward,

• To make an in-person appointment to speak with a counselor, students can contact the Student Counseling Center at 903.565.5746 (8 am-5 pm) or request an appointment online.
• To speak with a counselor 24/7 or to schedule a telehealth appointment, students can connect with our TimelyCare app.
• For 24/7 student assistance, the Crisis Hotline is available at 903.566.7254.
• For non-emergent concerns, you may file a CARE report

If you believe a student is a threat to themselves or others, please call 911 or the University Police Department (UPD) Dispatch at 903.566.7300.