PARENTS
Advice change Supporting
Dr Nihara Krause on the importance of building resilience and positive mental health in young adults
diffi culties, as well as supporting what is, for many young people, a challenging transition point in their life, potentially increasing their vulnerability to mental ill health. Resilience is the process of adapting well in the face of risk, most specifi cally caused by high levels of stress. University students experience a range of stressors, including being away from home, being responsible for their fi nances, academic attendance and performance, managing their diet, regulating their social life, maintaining good sleeping habits and forming friendships. For some, these challenges require the application of less developed strengths – ie, those who fi nd social situations diffi cult, or are impulsive or perfectionist. They may, therefore, fi nd adjusting to these changes even more of a challenge. Building your teenager’s ability to be resilient can be hugely benefi cial in helping negotiate the changes that come with the university or workplace experience. One in four young adults over the age of
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18 present with a diagnosable mental health diffi culty in their lifetime, with most adult mental issues beginning around the age of 15. Like physical health, mental health can fl uctuate on a spectrum from well to ill, and for many young people, starting university can trigger an issue. Students who have had previous mental health problems are particularly vulnerable and will need some extra preparation to make sure no relapse occurs. Mental ill health includes a range of conditions, with depression the most common by far. The stereotypical university lifestyle of poor sleep and diet, as well as excessive alcohol, can often have a signifi cant effect on mood. Students with eating disorders may also fi nd the change
arents and universities, and to an extent employers, have an important role to play in caring for students with mental health
of diet and eating plans harder to deal with. There are also some mental health conditions that are more common in young adulthood. Parents of sons or daughters who have, or are vulnerable to, mental illness can contribute signifi cantly and effectively in supporting positive mental health through early identifi cation and provision of access to early intervention, as well as working with the university to access support services and working out a way of monitoring safety and progress. University, as a time of transition, is sometimes experienced negatively by young people; however, it can also affect families as well. The departure is a signifi cant milestone in family life, requiring adjustment to separation and change. Being aware of
the impact of this on each family member’s mental health and family relationships and taking steps to build family resilience is a useful preventative step. Ultimately, this journey into adulthood
is a joyous experience. It is a step towards independence and exciting future prospects. For most students, it is the best time of their lives, and with the right tools, both students and families will thrive. l
Dr Nihara Krause is a consultant clinical psychologist and founder and CEO of stem4. She is speaking at the Parents’ & Advisors’ Theatre during the Birmingham event (see page 35).
Spring 2018
WhatLive.co.uk 61
“Their next step is a signifi cant milestone in family life”
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