You Know Your Student Best
Transitioning to college is a big adjustment鈥攆or students and families. If you ever feel concerned about your student鈥檚 well-being, know that Montclair CARES is here to partner with you. Whether it鈥檚 homesickness, academic stress, or more serious challenges, we provide a safe, confidential place to seek help.
What You Can Watch For
Even from a distance, parents and family members are often the first to sense when something feels 鈥渙ff.鈥 Look for changes such as:
- Sudden withdrawal or isolation
- Increased irritability or emotional outbursts
- Vague or avoidant responses like 鈥淚鈥檓 fine鈥 while missing classes or calling less
- Shifts in sleep, eating, or communication patterns
- Trust your instincts鈥攊f you notice concerning changes, it may be time to reach out.
How You Can Help
Your encouragement can make a big difference. Here are a few ways to support your student:
- Remind them it鈥檚 okay to ask for help.
- Encourage them to reach out to campus resources like CAPS, the CARE Team, or their academic advisor.
- Use simple, supportive language such as:
- 鈥淚t鈥檚 okay to need help鈥擬ontclair has people ready to support you.鈥
- 鈥淩eaching out for help shows strength, not weakness.鈥
- Refer them to CARE
- Not sure if you should refer? Use our simple flowchart: 鈥淪hould I Refer or Report?鈥
- Immediate safety concern? (danger to self or others) 鈫 Call campus police at 973-655-5222 or 911.
- Student needs support but is not in crisis? 鈫捖
- Unsure? 鈫 Consult with a CARE Team member first. We鈥檙e here to guide you.
- Learn more about when to refer a student to CARE.
- Not sure if you should refer? Use our simple flowchart: 鈥淪hould I Refer or Report?鈥
If you believe your student is in immediate danger, call 911 or campus police (5222).