Tips to help support the mental health of young adults

If you have a young adult in your life who’s navigating a significant change – whether wrapping up a semester at college or starting their first job post-graduation – they may be experiencing additional stress that can come with major transitions. Mental and behavioral health remains a critical issue throughout early adulthood, especially as students move from college into the workforce.¹  

New data from UnitedHealthcare reveals a growing gap between parent perceptions and young adults’ reality when it comes to mental health. While 60% of college students and 63% of recent graduates report experiencing mental health challenges in the past year, only 54% of parents of students and just 49% of parents of graduates recognize these struggles.

“This parent-child perception gap isn’t just a generational difference – it can have serious implications when it comes to recognizing and addressing conditions or selecting your health plan,” said Dr. Nicole Brady, chief medical officer at UnitedHealthcare Student Resources. “Having conversations about the importance of mental wellbeing is vital as we all need to work together to support our young adults and provide them with the resources they may need to access care.”

So, how can parents help start the conversation earlier, and help ensure they are supporting their young adult throughout these pivotal times?

Key life changes – like leaving home for college or entering the work force – may bring new mental health challenges. It may be helpful to stay engaged and aware of potential stressors in your child’s life. Find ways to make mental health a more regular part of everyday discussions.  

Talking about mental health may not always be easy. If you’re unsure where to start, utilize conversation starter cards and ask open-ended questions to help young adults feel more comfortable sharing.

• “How are you balancing school and your social life?”
• “What do you enjoy most about your new job?”
• “I’ve noticed you seemed off lately – what’s on your mind?”

Let them know it’s okay and very normal to feel anxious, stressed or overwhelmed. Avoid passing judgement and instead focus on listening more than speaking. It may also be helpful to encourage them to talk with another adult they trust, a close friend or a mental health professional.

Make sure they know what resources are available to them if they need help by looking into your family’s health insurance plan to see what behavioral services are included. Knowing these details may help them access mental health support on their own time. Also, pay close attention to virtual care options, which may be easier to access and less intimidating.  

For instance, UnitedHealthcare Student Resources offers a 24/7 crisis line answered by licensed clinicians for support with mental health concerns. Eligible students also have unlimited access to virtual counseling services with board-certified psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists and counselors — at no additional cost.¹

“Parents and friends play a critical role in supporting young peoples’ mental health, especially when times of transition are filled with new experiences,” Dr. Brady said. “The key for parents is helping to strike a balance between empowering young adults to become independent, while providing them with loving support, and resources.”