Raising independent, resilient, resourceful young adults is a process and parents must often remind themselves that their children are a “work in process” towards becoming successful young adults.

Becoming involves experimenting with new behaviors such as dying their hair green or changing majors or challenging the beliefs handed down to them and finding out how to make them their own beliefs or throw them out if they don’t “fit”. It’s a challenging time for parents who must not overreact negatively to this process of becoming.

Instead, give yourself credit for getting your students to college age and continue to nurture them as they struggle to become who they are. Give them the gift of saying “I love you for who you are” not for the color of their hair or the major they choose to study but simply for who they are. It’s the best gift you can bestow on them and will allow them the freedom needed to experiment and grow and decide who they really are.

Parents can suggest that their student(s) talk to a counselor when they feel stuck or just can’t handle certain situations they may encounter in Nursing school. They can set up an appointment by calling 614-546-3322 or if my door is open they are welcome to walk in for a session when I’m on campus. This is a wonderful benefit offered by Mount Carmel and we encourage students to take advantage of it.

Congratulations on raising such fine young adults.

Judith Bischoff, LPCC
Clinician/Consultant
Mount Carmel Behavorial Health & Wellness