As children get older, they get wiser, have more responsibly, and have more grasp on reality as to what is expected of them. Some young adults thrive with change, and some handle their change differently. Parents, It's exciting to see your children move on in life, go to college, start a job, get a boyfriend, or even buy a house, but sometimes what seems very excited can be very hard to enjoy.
If you're having a hard time aiding your child with anxiety or depression, here is what the unexplained feelings look like in our heads and why we can't just "get over it."
The Agenda NEVER Stops!
For those who have anxiety, big changes mean big adjustments, especially for students returning from college. It was a big step to move away from home, go to college, and study for the job that you will be doing for the rest of your life. Its hard to change your life and get into your college routine of constantly doing something, writing something, studying for something, the point is your always doing something. Summer is hard for us. The thought of relaxing is difficult to grasp. When we have time to think, our brain goes into list mode thinking about whats next. Living in the moment is hard but know this is because of our adjustment in life.
If I am quiet, my brain is loud!
With always thinking about whats next, there always the irrational thoughts. For example, as small as getting gas for your car, thoughts such as, "What am I going to do when I'm in school?" then change into "What I need for school?" "Do I have time to get all of these things?" We never stop. sometimes these thoughts replay in our mind and make us think about anything! to a point that we make ourselves upset and internalize all of our pain in fear that you might not understand. Sometimes the pain can be unexplainable. It seems like you are on the opposite side of the window and our side is fogged. Sometimes you feel we are missing out on the life that is in front of us, but what is clear to you is hard for us to grasp or see. I could be upset for absolutely nothing but know it's not because I am upset with you!
I get mad it's because I love you!
Sometimes I may get frustrated, but I only show you my pain because I trust you. It's hard to explain to friends or others who are not as close to you that you have anxiety or depression because you are afraid they may not understand. many are afraid to share their battles because they feel it is a sign of weakness. I come to you with my struggles because I know you love me no matter what and you know me best.
If you have trouble dealing with anxiety or depression and feel that it is too much to deal with, know that you are not the only one. The important thing is to talk about it and not keep everything inside.
Talk to your loved ones or schedule an appointment with a recommended therapist. It takes time, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel and you can overcome any struggle!