Owl Families,

We made it to November! The holidays are right around the corner but don't forget our students are also preparing for the end of the semester. Meaning finals will be taking place at the end of November beginning of December. During this time of the year our students need our support more than ever. Finals season can be very stressful so we want to keep that in mind and remind our students to stay focused and finish strong.

On-Campus Stress Resources

College can be a stressful time for many students. It is full of new experiences, new people, and challenging coursework. According to a survey of FAU students, 46% report experiencing more than average or tremendous stress recently. This makes it all the more important to be able to manage stress effectively. Families can play an integral role in this. Students will often turn to friends and family for support when they are experiencing difficult times. Here are some tips to help your student manage their stress in college:

• Recognize Symptoms: Everyone shows different symptoms of stress, but some common ones include irritability, physical pains or headaches, sleeping difficulties, eating more or less than usual, frequent colds, inability to concentrate, and more. Recognizing changes in your student are a great first step in helping them to cope.
• Communicate: Talking with your student, whether in person or on the phone or video call, is a great way to let them know you are available for them. Students are often trying to balance being independent and asking for help, so it is important to practice non-judgement during these conversations. This looks like actively listening to what they have to say and coming to a decision together on the issue. It is a great time to use language that encourages them to make their own healthy decisions.
• Healthy Coping: Practicing healthy stress management skills at home and in school are important in creating healthy habits for a life time. Remembering to eat, sleep, and move your body are all integral in managing stress over time. Moving in ways that are enjoyable, such as dancing, walking, and swimming can be fun ways to take a break and wind down.
• Give Resources: There are many resources available for no cost to students on campus. If your student already has a rapport with a therapist near home, then encourage them to utilize that resource. On campus there are free stress management items, stress management consultations, individual therapy, group therapy, intramural sports, and group fitness classes.  

 

This information has been adapted from the American Psychological Association's Help Center.

We would like to welcome all of our Veterans and their families to our Veterans Day Luncheon Thursday, Nov. 7, from noon-2 p.m. You will have the opportunity to meet our Veterans that serve here on campus and our community. We look forward to seeing you.

We would like to congratulate all of our Graduating Owls and their families! The Student Alumni Association is inviting graduating students and two family members a senior Champagne toast. Friday Dec. 6 at 5 p.m. Space is limited so RSVP by November 25th to [email protected] or by phone 561-297-2551. The event is business casual,and parking will be provided.