Just for Parents

Having your son or daughter begin his or her university career can be a stressful experience, especially if it is his or her first time away from home. Parents oftentimes put their own feelings on hold when they are helping their child prepare for college. During this important transition for your family, it is essential that you as parents attend to your own emotional needs. This will help everyone in your family adjust to the many challenges that are ahead. Below are some coping strategies that will help you over the coming months and years.

Ways to cope

What can I do to help my child from home?

Anxiety

Depression

Eating disorders

Substance dependence


There are a variety of reasons for the symptoms just mentioned, and we do not want you to conclude anything simply because your son or daughter shows some of these signs. But, if you see some of these symptoms, please express your concern to your son or daughter. You can let him or her know that free help is available from trained staff at the Student Counseling Services. Depression, anxiety, substance dependence, and eating disorders are among the most common problems that therapists treat. People with these problems suffer enormously, but they often do not seek professional assistance. Encouragement and support from parents and loved ones can change these patterns.