College students can experience stress as they are learning to transition to being more independent as they learn to balance school,
work, and their social life. Although college life often has a stigma as a fun time in life, many new stressors arise that can make it difficult for college students to cope.
Therefore, if you feel that your child is struggling, first attempt to understand what they are going through and then talk with them regarding ways to cope.
Common Problems College Aged Students Are Faced With
- Stress and anxiety: College can be a stressful time, with high expectations and a lot of pressure to succeed. Many students struggle with anxiety and stress, which can affect their mental health and ability to do well in school.
- Financial difficulties: College can be expensive, and many students struggle to pay for their education. This can lead to financial stress and difficulties, which can affect a student’s ability to focus on their studies
- Time management: College students often have a lot of responsibilities, including classes, homework, studying, and extracurricular activities. Additionally, managing their time effectively can be a challenge for many students, and this can lead to problems such as procrastination and difficulty meeting deadlines.
- Lack of support: For many students, college is the first time they have been away from home, and they may feel lonely or isolated. This lack of support can make it difficult for students to adjust to college life and can affect their mental health.
- Academic difficulties: College-level coursework can be challenging, and some students may struggle to keep up with the demands of their classes. Also, this can lead to poor grades, which can be a source of stress and can affect a student’s overall academic performance.
Furthermore, once you understand the problems your child is going through, there are several things that you can do to help.
Coping Mechanisms to Help Your College Aged Child Manage Stress
- Encourage your child to prioritize their mental and physical health. Support them to exercise regularly, eat well, and get enough sleep.
- Help your child learn to manage their time effectively. Specifically, help them create a schedule. You can provide them with tools such as a planner or calendar.
- Tell your child to reach out for help when they need it. Encourage them to talk to a counselor or therapist, or to seek support from friends or classmates. Also, normalize the fact that needing support from others is typical, promotes connection and reduces feelings of isolation.
- Provide emotional support. Listen to your child and offering them a supportive space to talk about their feelings
- Help your child learn to set boundaries and say no. This might involve helping them identify their priorities. Also, teach them how to say no to requests that are not in line with their goals.
- Encourage your child to engage in activities that they enjoy and that help them relax and unwind. This might involve supporting them to take part in a hobby or to spend time with friends and family.
Start Therapy for Your College Aged Child in Baltimore, MD
If you are wanting to get support to help reduce your child’s anxiety then we can help. Our Baltimore child therapists specialize in treating anxiety in children. We can help them learn valuable skills that will help them cope in healthy ways throughout their life. In order to get started follow these steps:
- Reach out for a free consultation at our Baltimore area therapy practice
- Schedule your first appointment for children’s therapy
- Watch as your child learns how to navigate their fears and anxiety
Other Therapy Services We Offer in Maryland & the Washington DC Area
At Crystal Waters Counseling Centers we offer a variety of in-person and online therapy services. They are available for children, teens, college students, women, and adults throughout Maryland. This includes counseling for both anxiety and depression. As well as EMDR Therapy, therapy for life transitions, and parent coaching.