Mental Fitness in Young Adults (19–25 years)
As your teen becomes a young adult, they might continue their education, start a career, begin to explore serious relationships, or move out on their own. This can often be a time of transition for both you and your young adult. It’s important that you continue to support and guide them while allowing them more responsibility and independence in making decisions.
Nourish Mental and Emotional Health
One of the best things you can do is talk to your young adult openly about any major life changes ahead. Discuss what those changes entail, feelings that may arise, and plan for those changes to help smooth the transition. Talk about the risky situations your young adult may face while away from home and what they can do in those situations. It's important to continue to have conversations about peer pressure, good decisions, and consequences. But most importantly, make sure your young adult knows that you will always be there for them if they ever need to talk.
During this transition, make sure your young adult has access to the healthcare services they need:
- Make sure that your young adult has health insurance, and explain how to access and use it. Many young adults have coverage under their parents’ plans through age 26, or they can get it through their college or employer.
- Check that your young adult knows where to access emergency or urgent care for both physical and mental health needs. Most colleges have student health centers on campus, and your young adult can locate the health centers near their home or workplace.
Stay in Touch
Keep in contact with your young adult and ask how they’re doing with their studies, work, friends, and other activities. It’s important to let them know you still care about what they’re doing and how they’re feeling.
Even if your young adult wants space, they may still need help navigating adult responsibilities. They might miss their high school life and friends. Encourage them to maintain those friendships and form new ones through work or other interesting activities.
Know that it’s normal for young people on their own to feel sad, homesick, or a bit lost at times. If these feelings linger or affect their ability to work, your young adult should seek help and know it’s normal to do so. Watch for warning signs and be prepared to seek professional help, if necessary.
