A Guide To College Move-In Day: Balancing Logistics And Mental Health

College move-in day can encompass numerous emotions and activities. As you prepare to leave home, whether for the first time or to move into a dorm, knowing what to expect and how to make the transition may be helpful. From organizing your belongings to settling into your new dorm room, having a plan may make the process smoother and less stressful. 

Anxious about move-in day?

Prepare for the transition with therapy

Common challenges faced by freshman-year students

Taking care of your mental health during the transition into your new school can help you prioritize the excitement of college. However, students starting college often encounter challenges. Common challenges can range from being homesick to managing academic pressure and planning future careers.

Homesickness

Some freshmen may be homesick shortly after moving into their dorms. This adjustment can be challenging, as their move could be their first time away from family and hometown. However, you may stay connected through regular calls or messages with loved ones. Joining clubs or groups on campus may also help you make new connections and be less isolated.

Academic pressure

The transition from high school to college often involves increased academic expectations. Freshmen might struggle with managing their time, keeping up with coursework, and managing the stress of exams. You might try using a planner or digital calendar to help you stay organized and on track. Creating a study group may also provide support and make the workload more manageable.

Navigating campus resources

Knowing where to find and how to use various campus resources can be difficult for new students. In addition, navigating libraries, dining halls, and health centers may be confusing. However, you can take advantage of campus tours and orientation sessions to familiarize yourself with these resources. Maps and campus apps may also be helpful.

Building new friendships

Making new friends in college can be intimidating for some students. Attending a large school or becoming part of a new community might make this step even more challenging. Still, you can participate in social events and join clubs to meet new people. Some campuses also organize events meant to help first-year students connect.

Career planning anxiety

Managing extracurricular activities

Balancing academics and residence life with extracurricular activities can be a challenge for some students. Overcommitting to clubs, sports, or social events may lead to stress and burnout. Therefore, try to prioritize commitments and choose activities that align with your interests and goals. Setting boundaries and creating a schedule may also help you maintain balance. 

Sleep deprivation

The demands of college life may cause irregular sleep schedules, which can affect your academic performance and overall health. Prioritize good sleep hygiene by creating a consistent bedtime routine with a restful sleep environment. Limiting caffeine intake, especially in the evening, and avoiding screen time before bed may also improve sleep quality. 

Packing the essentials for your college dorm room

Moving into a college dorm can be exciting yet overwhelming. Packing the essentials may help you ensure a smooth transition. First, you may want to focus on bedding and comfort. Essentials might include:

• Twin XL sheets
• Pillows and pillowcases
• Blanket or comforter

Consider packing cleaning supplies. Many colleges require you to maintain your space. Key items may include:

• Disinfectant wipes
• A small vacuum or broom
• Trash bags

Hanging clothes correctly can help maximize space. You might bring the following:

• Hangers
• A small closet organizer
• A shoe rack

A first aid kit can be helpful in case of minor injuries or illnesses. Your kit can contain:

• Band-aids
• Pain relievers
• Antiseptic wipes

For those living in a suite-style room, extra items may be necessary. Don't forget:

• Shower caddy
• Towels
• Toiletries

Electronics can also be helpful, as they allow you to stay connected and entertained. Essentials might include:

• Power strips
• Chargers for all devices
• Earbuds or headphones

Lastly, ensure you have study supplies. You may want to keep these handy:

• Notebooks
• Pens and pencils
• A desk lamp

Pack strategically and bring the right items to make your college move-in day less stressful. 

Other tips for a smooth move-in experience to your dorm room

A successful college move-in day often depends on preparation and organization. Below are tips that may make the process seamless and efficient.

Create a moving checklist

Before the big day, create a detailed moving checklist. Write down every item you want to bring, from clothes and toiletries to electronics and school supplies. Prioritize the list to ensure that you pack the most important items first. Include items you might need immediately upon arriving, like bedding and basic kitchen supplies. Using a checklist may prevent forgotten items and reduce last-minute stress.

Label all boxes clearly

Labeling all your boxes clearly may save time and hassle. Mark each box with its contents and the room to which it belongs. Doing so may make it easier to unpack and find what you need right away. Consider using color-coded labels to differentiate between different types of items or rooms. For example, use red for kitchen supplies and blue for bedroom items. This system may also help resident assistants and other helpers know where items go, making the move smoother.

Update your address to your dorm 

Notify your bank, credit card companies, and anyone else who sends you important mail that you’re moving. You may also want to update your address with the college and any online retailers you frequently use. Updating your address may prevent packages from getting lost and ensure you receive important notices from your family, friends, and financial institutions. 

Use sturdy packing materials

Investing in sturdy packing materials may protect your belongings during the move. Choose strong boxes, bubble wrap, and tape to secure your items. The right packing materials can protect fragile items like electronics, dishes, and glassware. 

Keep important documents accessible

Keep important documents accessible during the move. Make documents like your ID, college acceptance letter, housing information, and medical records accessible. Store these documents in a dedicated folder or envelope so you can quickly access them when needed.

Notify friends and family

Notify your friends and family about your move-in day plans. Sharing your schedule helps them stay informed and allows them to support you during this transition. You might also invite some of them to help with the move. Having a few extra hands can make the lifting and unpacking quicker and more enjoyable. Plus, having them there allows you to share this exciting moment with your loved ones.

Managing expectations and emotions

Students may experience a mix of excitement and anxiety during college move-in day. However, these emotions are normal, and knowing what to expect may make the day smoother. College students moving into a new room may find the process often takes longer than expected. The room might seem small or different from what you imagined. Focus on moving in the large items first. You can arrange smaller items later when there's more time.

Emotions can be intense on this day, and saying goodbye to family might be difficult. To manage this obstacle, plan to set aside some time for farewells. You might also schedule regular talks with family before the move-in day arrives. Doing so could help everyone prepare emotionally. The entire family may sense the emotional weight of this day. Parents might experience a mix of pride and sadness. However, starting college can be a significant transition for everyone, and it's okay to acknowledge your emotions.

Challenging emotions when you don’t have support 

Some college students struggle on move-in day because they don’t have family or friends to support them, and they may have previously been homeless, in foster care, or living in challenging situations. A range of emotions can arise in this situation, such as fear, disappointment, or envy. Seeing other students happy with their families can incite depressive symptoms. 

To cope with this challenge, you may find it helpful to talk to a counselor or therapist and prepare for move-in day by planning a special activity for yourself with a friend or on your own. Consider bringing decorations that make you happy and listening to music you enjoy when decorating. You can also get to know your roommate and decorate together as a way to socialize. 

How college students can manage their mental health and stress during their freshman year 

You may experience stress and other mental health challenges during the first few weeks of moving in. However, different strategies may help you manage mental health and alleviate stress, such as the following. 

Practice self-compassion

Students often put immense pressure on themselves to succeed. Practicing self-compassion means treating yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend. Accept that mistakes are part of learning.

Focus on what you can control

College life often comes with uncertainties. Focusing on what you can control may reduce helplessness. Make a list of situations and items over which you have control, such as your study habits and time management.

Prioritize self-care

Students often neglect self-care when overwhelmed with academic responsibilities. Prioritizing self-care can mean taking time to do activities you enjoy, such as hobbies, exercise, or meditation. Regular self-care rejuvenates the mind and body, making handling stress and maintaining mental health more accessible. 

Seek support from friends and family

Friends and family can provide emotional support and help you work through tough times. Reach out when you need someone to talk to. Sharing challenges with loved ones may lead to new perspectives and solutions. If you don’t have a support system, consider contacting a counselor, crisis helpline, peer support group, or another resource in your area. 

Resources for support for first-year college students 

First-year students often seek extra support to manage this new chapter of their lives. The following resources may be helpful in times of need. 

• Campus life health centers: Colleges often provide health centers that offer counseling services, general health care, and mental health support. These centers are often a helpful first step for students.
• Online therapy platforms: Online therapy platforms may offer convenient access to licensed therapists. These services can help students who prefer remote communication or want flexible scheduling.
• Academic advisors: Students are typically assigned an academic advisor who can help with course selection, career advice, and educational challenges. These advisors may be a helpful resource for academic planning and support.
• Resident advisors (RAs): RAs are more experienced students who live in the dorms and can provide guidance, support, and resources for first-year students. They can offer advice on adjusting to dorm life and university culture.
• Peer support groups: Most colleges have peer-led support groups and clubs focusing on mental wellness, study groups, and social activities. These groups can help students connect with others experiencing similar challenges.
• National support organizations: Organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and the Jed Foundation offer resources and support, including information on mental health, coping strategies, and crisis intervention.
• Crisis hotlines: Immediate help is available through crisis hotlines such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. These services typically provide support 24/7.
• Student tutoring centers: Tutoring centers on campus can provide help in various subjects, helping students keep up with their coursework and improve their understanding of complex topics.

Knowing where to go for help may make the transition to college smoother. Use these resources to find support for academic success and mental well-being.

Anxious about move-in day?

Prepare for the transition with therapy

Finding a therapist in college 

Students may find fitting traditional therapy appointments into their schedules difficult with their other activities. Online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp may solve this challenge by allowing students to have sessions in their dorm rooms or safe spaces. Finding a therapist specializing in a particular issue can be challenging on or near campus. Online therapy may open up a more comprehensive range of options, letting students find experts in specific fields, like anxiety or depression.

Online therapy may also lower the barriers to starting treatment. For example, starting with a virtual session may be more accessible, especially for students nervous about face-to-face meetings. A recent study looked at various digital tools designed to help college students with mental health. After analyzing 806 studies, it was found that online programs and mobile apps were effective in reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. For instance, web-based interventions showed positive results in improving mental health.