Starting college is a big transition! New classes, potentially a new place to live and a lot more independence! If you’re managing a chronic condition like diabetes, epilepsy, a gastrointestinal (GI) disorder or a mental health condition, you might also be wondering how you’ll stay on top of your health while being away from home.
The good news is that a little planning can help you feel more prepared and confident before move-in day.
start planning before classes start
A few months before college starts, make a checklist of your health needs. Having a plan in place can help reduce stress once classes begin. Make a simple checklist that includes:
- Medications and prescriptions
- Doctor appointments
- Medical supplies
- Insurance coverage
- Emergency contacts
- School accommodations
make sure you can get your prescriptions filled
One of the most important steps is figuring out how you’ll get your medications while at school.
Before leaving for college:
- Ask your doctor for enough refills to last through the semester if possible
- Set reminders so you don’t run out of medication
- Find a pharmacy near campus and learn how to transfer prescriptions if needed
- Check if your insurance works in your college town
This is especially important for students managing conditions like:
- Diabetes that requires insulin or glucose monitoring supplies
- Epilepsy medications that need to be taken consistently
- GI conditions that require daily medications
- Mental health medications that should not be stopped suddenly
If you use specialty medications, ask your care team how deliveries will work at school.
know where to go for medical care
Before classes start, learn about the healthcare options near campus.
Find out:
- Where the student health center is located
- Which urgent care or emergency room is closest
- Whether there are pediatric or adult specialists nearby
Some students may continue seeing their pediatric specialist during college breaks or through virtual visits. Others may need help transitioning to an adult care provider closer to campus.
Talk with your specialist before college about:
- How often you need follow-up visits
- What symptoms mean it’s time to schedule an appointment
- What to do if you have a flare-up or emergency
take charge of your health
College is often the first time students manage healthcare on their own. Practice skills like:
- Scheduling appointments
- Calling in prescription refills
- Tracking symptoms
- Understanding your medications
Keeping important medical information in your phone can also help in an emergency. Include your diagnosis, medications, allergies and emergency contacts.
don’t ignore mental health
Changes in sleep, routines and stress can affect both physical and mental health. If you already manage anxiety, depression or another mental health condition, stick to your treatment plan and know how to access counseling services on campus.
Even students without a diagnosed mental health condition may struggle during the transition to college. Reaching out for support early can make a big difference.
build healthy habits
Healthy routines can help you manage symptoms and feel your best. Try to:
- Get enough sleep
- Eat regular meals
- Stay hydrated
- Use reminders for medications and appointments
Students with chronic conditions may also qualify for accommodations through their college’s disability services office. This could include things like flexible attendance or housing needs. Ask your doctor about any paperwork you may need before school starts.
you don’t have to figure it out alone
Starting college with a chronic condition may take extra preparation, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Consider talking with your roommate and close friends about your health needs. Many chronic conditions are “invisible,” so others may not know when you need help unless you share it with them. Letting someone know what to watch for and how to help in an emergency can help you feel safer and more supported on campus.
Starting college can feel overwhelming, especially with a chronic condition, but support is available. Your healthcare team, family and school resources are there to support you along the way.
With preparation and the right support, you can spend less time worrying about your condition and more time enjoying your college experience.
