As a parent, watching your child leave for university can stir up a wide range of emotions. For example, while you will be incredibly proud of them for chasing their dreams, you’ll also be a little sad about them flying the nest and living independently for the first time. You may also be worried about everything from what they’re doing on nights out to whether they’re eating enough.

While these feelings are all valid (and every parent has been there), there are plenty of steps that you can take to reduce your stress levels during this time. Read on to find out more!

Help them find a nice place to live

While students are often known for their ability to make any space their own, helping them find a nice place to live will give you much greater peace of mind as a parent. This is because you know that they will have a safe space to call their own, whether they are sleeping in after a night out or working on the coursework. 

As such, you should be sure to research the different types of student accommodation that they have to choose from, and visit them in person to see what they are like ahead of time.

Set a designated time to call each week

While your teen may be happy to send a quick text here and there, you should not expect them to be on the phone with their parents every waking minute (though that would be nice). 

They are enjoying their first taste of freedom, and should be allowed to do so. However, setting aside a designated time to check in each week will also provide you with much greater peace of mind. This way, you will still feel as though you are being kept in the loop, but you aren’t blowing up their phone with messages and calls. However, you may be surprised by just how often they want to check in themselves!

Enjoy your freedom

Having a teenager living in your home can be difficult, no matter how much you love them. As such, this could be a great time to enjoy your own freedom once again, as you’ll likely have a little more time on your hands moving forward, too. For example, you could plan a romantic date night with your partner, or return to a hobby you left behind years ago. This will serve as a great distraction from your worries, while also giving you something to talk about during your next call. 

Final thoughts

While it may not seem that way right now, there are plenty of steps that you can take to reduce your stress and anxiety as your teen heads off to university. However, you should also be sure to let them know that you are always there for them, no matter what. This means that they will be sure to reach out should they need help, no matter what time of the day or night it may be.