As a parent, seeing your child head off to college for the first time can be an emotional rollercoaster. It’s a bittersweet moment filled with pride, excitement, and a fair amount of anxiety. And while it’s natural to focus all your energy on making sure your child is prepared for this big transition, it’s equally important to take care of your own mental wellbeing during this time.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

First and foremost, it’s crucial to acknowledge and validate your own emotions. 

You may feel a mix of sadness, worry, and even a sense of loss. These feelings are completely normal and understandable. Don’t try to push them away or ignore them. Instead, give yourself permission to feel whatever comes up and find healthy ways to express and process these emotions. This could be through journaling, talking with a trusted friend or family member, or engaging in a creative outlet like painting or music.

Stay Connected, But Give Them Space

One of the biggest challenges for parents when their child goes to college is finding the right balance between staying connected and giving them the space to grow and explore on their own. 

It’s important to establish a communication plan that works for both of you. This might involve setting up a regular time to chat on the phone or video call, while also being mindful not to overdo it or constantly check in. 

Remember, part of the college experience is learning to navigate independence and make decisions on their own. Trust that you’ve given them the tools and foundation they need to succeed.

Focus on Your Own Goals and Interests

With your child away at college, you may find yourself with more time and space to focus on your own goals and interests. 

This is a great opportunity to rediscover passions and hobbies that may have taken a backseat while raising your family. Perhaps there’s a class you’ve been wanting to take, a project you’ve been meaning to start, or a place you’ve been dreaming of visiting. 

Embracing this time for personal growth and fulfillment can be incredibly rewarding and help you maintain a sense of purpose and identity outside of your role as a parent.

Connect with Other Parents

Surrounding yourself with a support system of other parents who are going through the same experience can be incredibly valuable. 

Seek out opportunities to connect with parents of your child’s classmates, whether through college events, social media groups, or local meetups. 

Sharing your experiences, challenges, and triumphs with others who understand can provide a sense of camaraderie and normalize the range of emotions you may be feeling. You might even form new friendships and discover helpful resources and advice along the way.

Practice Self-Care

During this time of transition, it’s more important than ever to prioritize self-care. 

Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating nourishing foods, and engaging in regular physical activity. Find activities that bring you joy, relaxation, and stress relief, whether that’s practicing yoga, reading a good book, or spending time in nature. 

Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish – it’s necessary for your overall well-being and ability to be present for your child and other loved ones.

Seek Support If You Need It

If you find yourself struggling with intense emotions or having a hard time coping, don’t hesitate to seek support from a mental health professional. 

A therapist or counselor can provide a safe space to process your feelings and offer guidance and strategies for managing your mental health. They can help you develop coping mechanisms, set healthy boundaries, and navigate any challenges that may arise. 

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

As you start this new chapter alongside your child, remember to be patient and compassionate with yourself. Trust in the foundation you’ve laid and the resilience you’ve instilled in your child. And know that while your relationship may be evolving, your love and support will always be the anchor they can count on.

At New Leaf Counseling and Wellness, we understand the unique challenges and joys of parenting a college student. Our team of experienced therapists is here to provide guidance, support, and a listening ear as you navigate this exciting and sometimes overwhelming time. 

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply need some extra support, we invite you to reach out to us.