Supporting Your Longhorn's Mental Health: Resources for Parents

Medical Privacy and HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and privacy Act)

Students aged 18 and above are considered legal adults and must independently schedule their appointments with CMHC. In accordance with privacy regulations, we cannot disclose medical information to family members of legal adult students. If you believe you should have access to your student's medical records, we recommend having a conversation with your student about this matter. For mental health records, the client and their mental health provider will engage in a conversation before a release is signed. Contact CMHC at 512-471-3515 for additional information.

Incoming Student Checklist

To facilitate your Longhorn's transition and alleviate concerns, consider the following tasks before they arrive on campus:

Transitioning Your Longhorn’s Mental Healthcare

The transition to college and the academic challenges at UT can bring stress, especially for students adjusting to a new environment. We believe in proactive support and aim to set students up for success.

Effective Communication

Communication is essential. Students may be hesitant to discuss mental health concerns with parents. Listen actively, and be open and understanding.

Recognizing Signs

Be alert to changes in appetite, sleep patterns, mood, expressions of hopelessness, or signs of isolation. These changes can be temporary, but consistent or out-of-character changes should be acknowledged and validated.

Supporting Your Longhorn

Create a safe space for them to talk and express their feelings. Help them develop a plan, identify their support system, and reconnect with what helps them de-stress. Encourage them to utilize campus resources like CMHC.

Texas Parents Membership

Consider becoming a member of Texas Parents to enjoy various benefits, including newsletters with updates on CMHC services and other valuable information.

Orientation Collaboration

CMHC collaborates with New Student Services and hosts presentations during student and family orientations. For more information on orientations, visit newstudentservices.utexas.edu.

Contact Information

If you have further questions or need more information, please reach out to us at:

The University of Texas at Austin
Student Services Building
Counseling and Mental Health Center
Phone: 512-471-3515
24/7 Crisis Line: 512-471-2255
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.