💫From Home to Dorm: A Holistic Guide for Freshmen Starting Their College Journey

By Precious Dear, RN, Holistic Wellness Educator & Certified Mental Health First Aider

As summer slowly winds down and dorm move-in day approaches, my heart swells with both excitement and tenderness. On August 20th, my very own daughter will be stepping into her new chapter—college life, dorm keys in hand, dreams in her heart. It’s a season of transition not only for our students, but for the families who’ve nurtured them every step of the way.

Whether you're the one packing up your childhood bedroom or the parent waving goodbye, I want to offer something more than a checklist of what to bring. As a holistic nurse and Certified Mental Health First Aider, I want to offer you tools, resources, and wisdom that support your mind, body, emotions, spirit, and environment—everything it takes to truly thrive in this new phase of independence.

🌿 Mental & Emotional Wellness: Recognize When to Reach Out

College is a time of freedom, exploration, and self-discovery—but also one of stress, isolation, and unexpected challenges. It's important to recognize signs that you or a peer may need support:

• Withdrawal from friends or activities

• Excessive crying or emotional outbursts

• Sudden changes in appetite or sleep

• Increased substance use

• Difficulty focusing or attending class

• Expressions of hopelessness or suicidal thoughts

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, don’t brush them off. Reach out to campus mental health services, call 988, or talk to a trusted professor or RA.

💡 Quick Tip: Save your campus counseling center’s number in your phone before move-in day.

🧘🏾‍♀️Holistic Practices to Keep You Grounded

Here are a few simple, yet powerful habits to help you maintain balance in college:

• Start your day with intention: 2–5 minutes of deep breathing, gratitude journaling, or prayer can center you before classes.

• Create a sacred space in your dorm: A small plant, calming essential oils (like lavender or peppermint), and a favorite quote can make your dorm feel like home.

• Nourish your body: Pack healthy snacks and learn what foods help (not hinder) your energy and focus.

• Protect your peace: Set boundaries with social media and stay mindful of who and what you allow into your mental space.

🧠 Remember: Your brain is still developing. What you consume (food, media, energy) matters.

💬 Communication is Key: Learning to Advocate for Yourself

Living away from home means learning to:

• Speak up when something doesn’t feel right

• Ask questions without fear

• Set boundaries with roommates, friends, and professors

• Advocate for your wellness without guilt

Consider keeping a "Speak Life" journal to practice writing what you need, how you feel, and what boundaries you’d like to maintain.

🧰 Holistic Resources for Freshmen

Here are some of my top recommended tools for your journey:

Apps to Download:

• Insight Timer or Headspace (for meditation and sleep)

• My Study Life (for schedule & assignment planning)

• Mood path (mental health check-ins)

Must-Haves for Dorm Wellness:

• Aroma diffuser and grounding oils

• Herbal teas for calming the nervous system (try chamomile or lemon balm)

• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated

• Dry erase calendar or planner for mental clarity

  
  

🤝 Connection Builds Confidence

Isolation is one of the biggest emotional threats during college transition. Get involved early:

• Attend welcome events, student org fairs, or join a study group

• Look into faith-based campus groups or wellness communities

• Schedule regular check-ins with family or trusted mentors

💬 “You don’t have to navigate this new season alone. Ask for help. Let yourself be seen.”

💖 A Note to the Parents

To every parent sending a piece of their heart off to school—breathe. You’ve prepared them more than you know. Trust the seeds you’ve sown, and give them space to bloom. Stay available, but not overbearing. They’re learning, just like you are.

📌 Final Words of Encouragement

To the Class of 2029 Freshmen:

You are not just starting college—you are stepping into your becoming.

Trust the process. Speak life over yourself. Prioritize your peace. And don’t forget—it’s okay to ask for help. Your mental health is just as important as your GPA.

With love and light on this journey,

Precious Dear, RN, Certified Mental Health First Aider, CEO, Precious Holistic Touch LLC