Navigating college life is a major adjustment for many college students, and supporting their mental health is essential in helping them thrive in this new environment. Whether your student is moving away from home for the first time, commuting from home, or balancing the demands of graduate studies and work, there are many ways you can offer meaningful support.

In the first few months, it’s important to encourage growth as your student transitions to this new chapter. This is often a time of significant change and can be an opportunity for personal development. One helpful approach is to reframe anxiety as excitement. Acknowledge that feeling nervous is a normal part of the college experience, but emphasize the excitement that can come from new opportunities and experiences. The way you help them view this period can have a profound impact on their mental resilience.

“In addition to mindset shifts, it’s crucial to encourage the use of campus resources early on. Whether it’s social activities, counseling centers, or academic support like tutoring, these resources are designed to help students manage stress and prevent feelings of isolation or overwhelm,” said Cynthia Vejar, Program Director and Associate Professor of Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Lebanon Valley College.

For commuter students and graduate students, the challenge may be different as they might feel disconnected from the social life on campus. Encouraging them to integrate socially, while recognizing the unique challenges they face such as balancing work, family commitments, or a less traditional college experience, can go a long way in maintaining their mental well-being.

The pandemic has also left an indelible mark on many students, with remote learning becoming a norm for an extended period. For those returning to in-person classes, this shift can be especially intimidating. Supporting your student during this transition involves patience and empathy, reminding them that adjusting to in-person settings will take time and it’s okay to seek help if they are feeling overwhelmed. Taking the transition one step at a time can ease their anxiety.

Another challenge students may face is dealing with the pressure of perfectionism and the accompanying anxiety. The current generation of students often feels immense pressure to excel in every area, which can lead to burnout and frustration when things don’t go as planned. Encourage your student to take pride in their effort and dedication while also showing them the importance of self-compassion when things aren’t perfect. This balance can help them manage stress in healthier ways.

One of the trickiest aspects of supporting your student is finding the right balance between staying connected and allowing them space to grow independently. With technology keeping us more connected than ever, it’s tempting for parents to remain constantly involved. However, giving your student autonomy is key to their development during this pivotal time. A useful strategy could be setting designated check-in times, such as a quick conversation at the end of the day. This allows for consistent communication without intruding on your student’s independence.

“As much as you may want to help solve all of your student’s problems, it’s important to encourage them to navigate challenges on their own. College is a critical time for learning problem-solving and decision-making skills, and giving your student space to manage their own issues can help build confidence and resilience,” said Vejar.

If you’re part of a parent support group or an online community like those found on Facebook, it’s important to remember that while these groups can be helpful for connecting with other parents, they can also sometimes encourage over-involvement. Instead of using these groups to solve your student’s problems, consider using them as a space to share experiences with other parents who are also trying to foster their child’s independence.

Ultimately, supporting your college student’s mental health is about striking a balance. By encouraging independence, promoting the use of campus resources, maintaining healthy communication boundaries, and being a source of emotional support when needed, you can help set your student up for a successful and mentally healthy college experience.