Parent’s Guide to Supporting Emotional Wellbeing
Seeing a young person off to university is a significant milestone, both for them and you.
As a parent, carer or loved one, it's important to recognise that the young person may face emotional challenges as they settle into a new environment. Offering support can help them adjust to university life and thrive during this exciting chapter.
Open Communication
How can I make sure we maintain good communication?
Maintaining open lines of communication is crucial in supporting their emotional wellbeing.
Encourage them to share their feelings, challenges and successes with you. Let them know they can reach out whenever they need to talk, whilst also giving them the space to grow independently. Balancing communication without overwhelming them is key.
Try scheduling regular check-ins and ask open-ended questions as this invites them to talk more openly about how they're feeling. It may also prove beneficial to help them identify resources such as counselling services or peer support groups on campus that can provide extra support.
Support
Help them build a support network
Being away from home can sometimes leave students feeling isolated, particularly during the first few weeks. Encourage them to build a support network, made up of people they would feel comfortable reaching out to for help.
Suggest joining student groups and societies that match their interests. Social connections can help them feel less alone and more engaged, particularly if they're feeling homesick.
As a parent of a young person studying away from home, it's crucial to ensure you're also supported, especially as you adjust to them being away. Join our Facebook group for parents and carers to access helpful resources, share experiences and connect with those navigating a similar situation.
Routines
Promote healthy routines
Maintaining a balanced routine is key to supporting emotional wellbeing. University students can sometimes struggle to balance academics, social activities and a personal life, which can lead to stress or burnout.
While it's ultimately the responsibility of each student to establish and maintain healthy habits, you can encourage them to create a routine that prioritises both productivity and rest.
Acknowledging their efforts, offering reassurance an reminding them to seek support when needed can help the young person adopt a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
Wellbeing Tips for Parents/Carers
Supporting your child's emotional wellbeing: our top tips
Balancing encouragement, understanding and practical support is key to helping your child succeed both academically and emotionally.
Below, we've outlined our top tips for parents, designed to ensure your child feels supported and confident throughout their time at university:
Set up weekly or bi-weekly calls or texts to stay in touch.
Allow your child to share their experiences, challenges and emotions without judgement.
Include small, comforting items, such as self-care products or their favourite snacks.
Balance your involvement with respect for their independence.
Be a sounding board for managing stress or making tough decisions.
Recognise the ups and downs they may experience.
Acknowledge milestones and achievements to boost their confidence.
Ask if they have a network of friends or mentors they can lean on in times of stress.
Ensure they know how to access on-campus support.
Remind them that you're always there for them, no matter the distance.
