You Are Here
You dropped your child off at college and made sure he or she has everything necessary to survive college, right? Yet your son or daughter may contact you and express feelings of being overwhelmed or anxious. Or perhaps you are not hearing from your child at all, which may fuel your own anxiety.
What is a parent to do?
Although parental instincts tell us to take care of our children, it’s important to remember that college students must learn to figure things out for themselves. This process may involve some discomfort, sadness and anxiety. That is natural, and as odd as it may seem, it is essential to personal growth and development. When parents “fix” everything for their children, they are doing them a disservice. It prevents them from developing the skills necessary to become independent, self-confident and self-sufficient.
Your role should now be that of consultant, not problem-solver. The next time your child calls feeling overwhelmed, encourage him or her to find a solution. Ask questions and offer support. This helps students find their own answers, which in turn builds confidence and self-reliance.
You should also encourage your child to maintain healthy habits, which includes getting the right amount of sleep, eating well and being physically active. (Aerobic exercise produces endorphins, which are helpful in treating mild depression and anxiety symptoms.)
The R-MC community has many resources available to help students:
- The Center for Counseling Services, Pannill House (804) 752-7270
- The Higgins Academic Center, Neville House (804) 752- 5510
- The Office of Residence Life, Mary Branch (804) 752-4722
- The Brock Sports and Recreation Center, which offers a wide variety of intramural programs
- The Student Health Center, located in the Brock Center (804) 752-3041
- The Office of Student Life, located in Peele Hall (804) 752-7318
The most common mistake is for students to try to “go it alone” when they are struggling. All a student has to do is ask for help, which is often one of the hardest things to do. Paradoxically, it is also one of the best markers of growing maturity and independence.
Finally, encourage your son or daughter to get involved in activities outside the classroom. This is one of the best ways to get engaged in the R-MC community. It helps students develop new friendships and take on leadership roles, and it facilitates adjustment and success in college.