Family Transitions: Healthy Good-byes and New Beginnings Psychological Counseling Center
What We Will Be Discussing Common reactions to the transition Challenges for families Challenges for students Tips for making a smooth transition When to get involved Campus resources
Common Parent Reactions Pride/hopefulness Relief Guilt Sadness/emptiness/loneliness Loss of control Worry/fear
Challenges for Families Dealing with emotional and physical separation from your student Feeling left out from your student’s life Relinquishing some control
Challenges for Families Changes in your parental role Changes in other relationships (e.g., other children, spouse) Dealing with visits home (e.g., weekends/holidays)
Challenges for Students Homesickness Stress Establishing own identity Establishing independence Finances
Challenges for Students Roommate issues Socializing (fitting in) Academic pressure/ expectations Time management
Tips for a Smooth Transition Redirect time and energy Be open to adopting a different role with your student Be a good listener Allow for mistakes Don’t take changes in your student’s behavior personally
Tips for a Smooth Transition Stay connected Guide rather than pressure or rescue Discuss values and expectations Expect ups and downs
When to Get Involved Repeated tearful phone calls Unexplained weight gain/loss Frequent illness or fatigue Insomnia or other sleep problems Any very unusual behavior
Campus Resources Resident Advisor, Resident Director Psychological Counseling & Wellness Student Services Center 430 Student Services Center 430 Student Health Services Student Learning Center Academic Advising Disabled Student Services
Campus Resources Alumni and Parent Relations Parent handbook (csuchico.edu/alumni/parents) Parent handbook (csuchico.edu/alumni/parents) Student Activities (clubs/organizations) For parents: “Don’t Tell Me What to Do, Just Send Money” by Helen E. Johnson & Christine Schelhas-Miller For students: In case of emergency: THE FOOLPROOF METHOD