"Most students, when they're struggling mid-semester, are feeling overwhelmed but don't actually need advice or solutions. This goes against our instinct as parents-we want to solve the problem and eradicate their pain. Don't do it. They already know what to do; they're just struggling to do it. This is where hard, messy lessons occur. Instead, validate how they're feeling. Don't agree with them; just acknowledge how hard this time is for them. Listen with the intent of understanding rather than solving."
"This is the time of year when I get loads of calls from parents about their college students who started strong (who wouldn't when there's no homework, and it's 80 degrees and sunny?) but are experiencing significant anxiety, fear, and avoidance. Maybe their social life is too good and doesn't allow time for schoolwork. Maybe their classes hit flood stage, and there's no end in sight."
Many college students begin the semester strongly but later experience anxiety, avoidance, and overwhelm due to social distractions or heavy coursework. Validate their feelings rather than offering immediate solutions; listen to understand. Students often know what to do but struggle to act, and that gap is where difficult lessons occur. Encourage structured daily routines, model consistency through regular calls, and help them plan time and organization. Recommend therapy with college-focused clinicians when appropriate. Arrange visits to provide perspective and connection, and redirect attention to upcoming breaks to reduce rumination and restore motivation.
Read at Psychology Today
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