Your teen has been working hard for months, or even years, to get into college and it’s a difficult time waiting for the decisions. They are probably feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed. They may even be going through the thoughts of “What if I don’t get into any college? What will happen?” or “Am I going to get into the college I really want to get into?”. The uncertainty they face can be anxiety-inducing, especially with all the questions from friends and family asking “Who have you heard from? Where are you going?”. As their parent, you want to help them find ways to stay busy, take care of themselves, and manage their anxiety. So, here are ways to help them:
Encourage Your Teen to Keep Busy
Them sitting around waiting for that email or letter is not going to be helpful for their mental health. Invite them to do activities that they will enjoy, like taking a walk outside or playing a game with you. Or, if they prefer to be alone, suggest activities like watching a movie or reading a book. Keeping busy will help reduce their anxiety because their mind isn’t on college decisions.
For example, suggest a family game night or a friend’s game night where they can have fun with the people they love and take their minds off college decisions. Laughing is a great way to reduce stress and make them feel better. Have them even consider their interests and help them find things they like to do.
Help Them to Do Self-Care
Self-care is important for everyone but especially during times of stress. Ask your teen what they need to do to take care of themselves and encourage them to engage in these activities. This could be taking a walk outside when feeling anxious, spending time with friends, having a bubble bath, or listening to music. It doesn’t have to be anything extravagant.
These are going to be the last times they spend with their friends before they all transition to the next stage of their lives, so make sure to encourage them to take advantage of it. Have an honest talk with them about how important self-care is and how it can help them manage their anxiety. Maybe even point out how exercise is a great way to take care of themselves and reduce stress. Exercise releases endorphins, which make them feel better, so suggest activities like going for a walk, running, or playing sports with friends. Moving their bodies is a great way to reduce anxiety and take care of their mental health.
CBT Type of Therapy
You know your teen is stressing out over college decisions, so you may want to suggest Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This way they can have a therapist to help them identify any negative thoughts they may be having and then examine any evidence of that. For example, if your teen has the thought “I’m not going to get into any college,” have them look at the evidence. They have good grades and applied to a lot of schools, so there is more evidence to support that they will get in.
After examining the evidence, the therapist will help your teen challenge their negative thoughts and challenge their beliefs. However, if your teen isn’t comfortable with therapy, you can use this CBT idea at home. When your teen has negative thoughts, help them identify and challenge them.
Decision-Making to Lessen Anxiety
When it comes to making the decision on which college to choose, have your teen prepare for this before any college has accepted them. They can make a list of pros and cons, or even take a tour if they are able to. This will help them assess how comfortable they felt at each school, which will help them make the decision. Help them take steps to decide how to decide between schools and make sure they don’t forget to consider the financial implications of their decision.
You can guide them through this process by asking questions that will help them process the decision. For example, ask them what aspects of school are most important to them and why. Also, if they took a tour, ask them how they felt at this school. This will help them explore their emotions and give them more clarity when it comes to making a decision. Ask them to go with their gut feeling when they make their pros and cons list and take their time to make sure they are making the right decision.
Also, remind your teen that no matter where they go, it doesn’t define who they are or what they will become. College is just a stepping stone in their lives and they can always make decisions that move them closer to what they want. Encourage them to go with what feels right and remind them that no matter what, you are always there to support them.
Begin Counseling for Teens in Milton, GA
Your teen is making a difficult decision, and it’s important to provide them with support. You are there to help encourage them and provide them with guidance. But sometimes an anxiety therapist for teens may be the best option to help your teen work through their decision. Our team of therapists at Wellview Counseling will work with your teen to manage their anxiety and stress. We can also provide guidance on decision-making and help your teen develop the skills they need to make an informed choice. If you’re interested in starting therapy:
- Contact Wellview Counseling
- Meet with Our Therapists
- Start Helping Your Teen Today!
Other Therapy Services Offered at Wellview Counseling
Teens have a lot on their plate and they can benefit from therapy. Our therapists at Wellview Counseling understand that teens face many challenges and can help them navigate through these difficult times. We offer individual counseling, child counseling, teen counseling, family counseling, postpartum depression and anxiety counseling, trauma and PTSD treatment, and therapy for those with a chronic illness. Regardless of the challenge you face, our therapists are here to help. Our office is in Roswell, GA, but we also offer online therapy to anyone in Georgia. If you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment please feel welcome to reach out to us!
About the Author
Ashley Bobo, LCSW is a seasoned therapist who has been helping families and individuals for over 20 years. With a passion for helping people navigate life’s challenges, Ashley has a wealth of experience in areas such as anxiety and stress management, depression, relationships, and more. As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator, Ashley is well-equipped to help your teen navigate the pressures of college decisions. Let Ashley be your guide and support system as you help your teen face this exciting new chapter with confidence If you want to know more about Ashley and her practice, please visit Wellview Counseling’s website.