Parenting Long-Distance

When Your Child Is Struggling

If your child calls expressing sadness, homesickness, or struggle of any kind, your gut reaction might be to jump in the car and drive straight to her dorm. Resist! Even if your child sounds clingy or needy over the phone, remember that she is now on the brink of adulthood and needs to learn to navigate the world rather than rely on you to do it for her. This is a time for her to be building new relationships and finding resources away from home.

So, what can you as a loving parent give her? A listening ear. A long-distance shoulder to cry on. The assurance that you believe in her and believe in her ability to cope with the situation.

Of course, there may be cases when a child's emotional problems seem acute: Do you suspect severe depression, anxiety attacks, an eating disorder, or alcohol abuse? If this is the case, your best course is to call the student counseling center and find out what resources are available on campus. Ask to speak to one of the counselors for advice on dealing with your child's problem.