My daughter is leaving for university. How can I support her
It might seem like all gains for her and all losses for you, but it’s really the start of an exciting new chapter in your relationship
TL;DR
- The author is a single mother to an 18-year-old daughter who is transitioning to university and a new social circle.
- The daughter has developed a new friendship group and a boyfriend, and is starting to stay over.
- The mother is experiencing feelings of loss and worry about her daughter's safety and the speed of these changes.
- She recognizes the need to maintain open communication and support her daughter's independence.
- The article advises the mother to manage her own emotional needs and explore interests outside of her parental role.
- Psychotherapist Sarah Calvert emphasizes the healthiness of this separation and encourages the mother to identify her own fears.
- Open conversations between mother and daughter about their evolving relationship are recommended.