Residential treatment programs can be a valuable tool for teens learning how to overcome challenges and develop the skills they need for success. While these programs often focus on addressing mental health and behavioral concerns, it’s important to also prioritize education and academic success.
Students whose education is emphasized during residential treatment programs, such as those at Alpine Academy Utah, often have an easier time transitioning into college life. Support, community, and organizational skills are crucial for making this change possible.
The following article provides insight on education in residential treatment programs and the link between mental health and academic achievement.
Education In Residential Treatment Programs
Education is a critical component of residential treatment programs, and for good reason. According to the National Institute of Health, there is a strong link between mental health and academic achievement.
Adolescents experiencing mental health issues often have a harder time staying focused in school and meeting academic expectations.
This creates a dangerous cycle for many students; once they start to do poorly in school, they experience direct negative psychological side effects. As they become overwhelmed by these symptoms, it gets harder to keep up with school, so the cycle repeats.
This is why it’s so crucial, now more than ever, that students in residential therapy are given the tools and support they need in order to maintain academic excellence while undergoing treatment programs. By supporting education during residential treatment, teens can work toward improving their mental health while also building the skills and knowledge they need to succeed academically.
College Preparedness
The opportunity to enroll in higher education programs is an added benefit of residential therapy programs that many overlook. Current residents and prospective college students interested in attending higher education institutions and are provided with the tools and support they need for success in college. By focusing on, and improving therapeutic education services while encouraging students to pursue higher level academics, the education received during residential therapy programs is helping to break the cycle of mental health challenges and academic shortcomings.
From Residential Therapy to College
Transitioning from a residential therapy program to college life can be challenging, but with the right support, it can be incredibly rewarding. Here are a few tips for students making this transition:
• Connect with Support Services
As of late, more and more colleges have started offering a variety of support services to their students, such as mental health counseling, tutoring, and academic advising. Students should be encouraged to utilize these services as they’re offered.
• Stay Organized
College can be overwhelming. With the onslaught of a new curriculum and structure, it’s important that students learn to stay organized and manage their time efficiently. This is especially true for students with ADHD and OCD, as the use of planners, calendars, and other similar tools will be particularly beneficial for staying on track.
For those preparing to transition into a college environment from residential treatment, take time to plot out individualized organization strategies and utilize every available tool to ensure success.
• Build a Community
Community is essential to anyone’s wellbeing. Finding a supportive group of peers will be incredibly helpful when it comes to navigating the challenges of college life. Students must take the time to explore their options of clubs or organizations that align with their interests and values.
Fostering a community in this way can be massively beneficial to one’s overall mental health.
Conclusion
By prioritizing education during residential treatment and providing support for transitioning to college life, programs like Alpine Academy’s College Map are helping many lay down the foundation of a healthy, productive college life.
