Category Archives: Press

Written by Marc Lehman

Owner of U ARE HEARD and Licensed Clinician

The start of the second semester of college is fast approaching and students are probably feeling the pressure. As a parent, it’s important to help your student get off on the right foot this semester so that they can finish strong. Here are some tips on how you can help get your child ready to start the semester off right.

**Set Goals and Priorities

Talk to your student about their goals for this semester and what their priorities should be. Help them decide which classes should take priority over others. Encourage them to set realistic goals and make sure they understand that it is ok if things don’t always go according to plan. Be sure to remind them that it’s important to stay organized and focused throughout the semester in order to reach their goals.

**Get Academic Support

It’s vital that your student gets the academic support they need in order to succeed in college. Look into what resources are available on campus, such as tutoring centers or group study sessions, and encourage your student to take advantage of these opportunities when necessary. If there aren’t any resources available on campus, look into online tutoring services or private tutors for additional assistance.

**Take Care of Their Health and Mental Health

Your student’s health and mental health should always be a top priority during any semester at college, but especially during the second semester when fatigue can really start to set in from all the studying and exams they’ve done over the course of the year. Encourage them to get plenty of rest, exercise regularly, and eat healthy meals throughout their day so that they have enough energy for all their studies and extracurricular activities. Also remind them not forget about taking time out just for themselves every now and then too!

Starting second semester off right is essential for college students wanting to end strong academically by finishing out their school year with good grades. As a parent, you can play an important role in helping your student achieve success by setting goals with them, providing academic support when needed, and making sure they’re taking care of themselves both mentally and physically throughout their second semesters at college. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to help ensure that your student starts second semester off on the right foot!

Written By Marc Lehman, Owner and Family Therapist at

U ARE HEARD LLC

It can be difficult for parents to understand why their college student may be dealing with anxiety or depression. For many, this is a new experience outside of the home and navigating those emotions can be intimidating. Being aware of the most common reasons why students may become anxious or depressed while at college can help parents better support their children through this challenging time.

Pressure From Peers and Professors

The pressure to succeed—both academically and socially—can become overwhelming for some college students. The fear of not being accepted by peers, or the feeling that they are not measuring up to expectations from professors, can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, which in turn can cause depression and anxiety. Additionally, if students strive too much for perfection, their unrealistic expectations can also lead to stress, fear of failure, and even depression.

Lack Of Support System

In many cases, college students may feel isolated or alone as they are away from home for the first time. Without a strong support system in place it can be hard for students to find someone to talk to about their worries and concerns. This lack of emotional support can contribute significantly to feelings of loneliness and helplessness which could lead to depression or anxiety issues.

Financial Stressors

For many college students’ money is tight; tuition fees have risen in recent years leaving more families struggling with high costs. This financial burden on top of other expenses such as rent, food costs and textbooks could cause immense stress which may result in mental health challenges like anxiety or depression. Even something as small as not being able to afford the same clothes that others have could make a student feel inadequate or excluded leading them down a slippery slope emotionally speaking.

It’s important for parents to understand what might be causing their college student’s mental health challenges so that they can provide adequate support during this difficult time away from home. Being aware of the potential pressures from peers or professors, lack of a supportive network or family system, or financial difficulties will help both parents and students navigate these issues together successfully until graduation day! With proper understanding and compassion from family members especially parents, college students will have an easier time managing any depression or anxiety that arises during these formative years away from home.

Written By Marc Lehman

Owner and Family Therapist at U ARE HEARD LLC

As a parent, it can be tough to let go and trust your college student to make good decisions on their own. But it’s important to remember that part of the college experience is learning how to manage independence. With that said, there are certain warning signs that may indicate your student is having difficulty adjusting to college life.

If you see any of these 5 warning signs, it may be time to have a conversation with your student.

1. Your student is skipping class more often than they’re attending.

One of the most important things college students can do is attend class regularly. If you notice your student is missing class more often than they’re going, it may be time to check in and see how they’re doing. Skipping class can lead to poor grades and eventually getting dropped from the course altogether. It can also be a sign that your student is struggling to keep up with the material.

2. Your student’s grades have slipped.

If you’ve been checking in on your student’s grades and you’ve noticed a significant drop from their previous academic performance, it may be cause for concern. A drop in grades can indicate that your student is struggling with the material, or it might suggest they’re not prioritizing school as much as they should be. In either case, it’s worth checking in with your student to see how they’re doing academically and what might be causing the decline in their grades.

3. Your student is isolate themselves from friends and family.

It’s normal for college students to want some space and privacy as they adjust to their new independence. But if you notice your student isolate themselves completely—not just from family but from friends too—it may be cause for concern. This behavior could indicate that your student is struggling emotionally or socially, and might benefit from some additional support.

4. Your student seems overly stressed or anxious.

Stress is a normal part of the college experience, but if you notice your student seems unusually stressed or anxious, it might be a sign that they’re struggling to cope with the demands of college life. Stress and anxiety can manifest in different ways, so pay attention to changes in your student’s behavior or mood—such as withdrawing from social activities, biting their nails, or excessive outbursts of anger—that might suggest they’re struggling emotionally.

5. Your intuition tells you something isn’t right.

As a parent, you know your child better than anyone else—so trust your gut if you feel like something isn’t right. If you have a sneaking suspicion that something might be wrong, even if you can’t put your finger on it, reach out to your student and see how they’re doing. They may not open up right away, but starting a conversation about how they’re really feeling can help identify any underlying issues before they become bigger problems down the road.

 

The college years can be both an exciting and challenging time for students and parents alike. It’s important to trust your instincts when it comes to your child’s well-being and always err on the side of caution if you feel like something might be wrong. If you see any of these 5 warning signs in your college student, reach out and start a conversation—it could make all the difference in helping them succeed in college and beyond!

Written By Marc Lehman

Owner and Family Therapist at U ARE HEARD LLC

It’s that time of year again. The end of the semester is upon us, and with it comes finals week. For many college students, this can be a very stressful and anxiety-inducing time. If your child is struggling with finals anxiety, there are a few things you can do to help them get through it.

Here are a few tips for helping your college student deal with finals anxiety:

1. Encourage Them to Create a Study Schedule: One of the best ways to deal with finals anxiety is to be prepared. Help your child create a study schedule that breaks down what they need to study for each final and when they will study it. This will help them feel more in control and less overwhelmed.

 

2. Make Sure They’re Getting Enough Sleep: It’s important that your child gets enough sleep during this time so that they can function well on exams. Make sure they’re getting at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night and try to avoid letting them pull all-nighters.

 

3. Encourage Them to Eat Healthy Meals: Eating healthy meals will help improve your child’s concentration and energy levels. Make sure they’re eating plenty of nutritious food. Also, avoid letting them eat sugary or fatty foods as these can make them feel sluggish.

 

4. Help Them Find an Activity to Relax Their Mind: It’s also important that your child takes some time to relax their mind so that they don’t become overwhelmed by stress. Encourage them to find an activity that they enjoy, such as reading, hiking, or yoga, and make sure they set aside some time each day to do it.

 

Finals week is a stressful time for many college students. If your child is struggling with anxiety, there are a few things you can do to help them get through it. Encourage them to create a study schedule, make sure they’re getting enough sleep, encourage them to eat healthy meals, and help them find an activity to relax their mind. By following these tips, you can help your child reduce their stress levels and do well on their exams.

Written By Marc Lehman

Owner and Family Therapist at U ARE HEARD LLC

You send your student off to college with high hopes. They’re going to get a great education, make new friends, and have the time of their lives. But then, something goes wrong. Your student starts struggling in school and their grades begin to slip. Suddenly, you’re left wondering what happened and how you can help your student get back on track. Here are some of the most common reasons why students struggle in college and what you can do to help them overcome these challenges.

1. Their coursework is more difficult than they expected.

If your student is struggling with the difficulty of their coursework, there are a few things you can do to help them out. First, encourage them to talk to their professor. They may be able to offer some advice on how to approach the material or suggest some resources that will be helpful. You can also help your student by hiring a tutor or enrolling them in a study skills class. These classes can teach your student how to better manage their time, take notes effectively, and study for exams.

2. They’re having trouble making friends.

Making friends in college can be tough, especially if your student is shy or introverted. One way you can help them is by encouraging them to get involved in extracurricular activities or clubs that interest them. This will give them a chance to meet other students with similar interests and make friends in a low-pressure environment. You can also suggest that they join a fraternity or sorority; these organizations are full of students who are looking for new friends and are always willing to help out newcomers. Finally, tell your student to be open to meeting people from all different backgrounds; some of their best friends in college may come from unexpected places.

3. They’re homesickness and missing home too much.

Homesickness is perfectly normal and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. If your student is struggling with homesickness, there are a few things you can do to help them feel better. First, encourage them to stay in touch with their family and friends back home; talking to loved ones will help remind them of all the reasons they decided to go to college in the first place. Second, tell them to get involved on campus; the more involved they are, the less time they’ll have to dwell on homesickness. And finally, suggest that they take some time for themselves; Homesickness can be overwhelming, so it’s important for your student to have some time each day where they can relax and de-stress.

If your student is struggling in college, it’s important not to panic. There are a number of reasons why students struggle at college and many of these problems can be overcome with the right support from loved ones back home. So take a deep breath, reach out for help if you need it, and remember that this is just a phase; things will get better eventually!

 

Written By Marc Lehman, Owner and Family Therapist at

U ARE HEARD LLC

It’s normal for college students to feel some anxiety when starting school. But for some students, that anxiety can be so overwhelming that it interferes with their ability to succeed in college. If your child is struggling with social anxiety, there are things you can do as a parent to help.

Here are four tips:

1. Talk to your child’s college about their accommodations.

Most colleges have disability services that can help students with anxiety disorders. Talk to your child’s college about the accommodations they offer and make sure your child is registered with the office. Accommodations can include things like extra time for tests, a separate room for taking exams, or preferential seating in classrooms.

2. Encourage your child to seek counseling.

Counseling can be extremely helpful for people struggling with social anxiety. Many colleges have counseling centers that offer services to students. Encourage your child to make an appointment and talk to a counselor about their anxiety. If they would prefer to work with someone virtually have them look into this option.  For many students this is a more engaging option as it is done from the privacy of their own room.

3. Help your child develop a support system at school.

One of the best ways to combat social anxiety is to surround yourself with supportive people. Help your child develop a support system at school by connecting them with friends, roommates, or classmates who understand what they’re going through. These people can provide a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on when needed.

4. Stay involved in your child’s life at college.

It’s important to stay involved in your child’s life at college, even if they’re struggling with social anxiety. Check in regularly, send care packages, and come visit when you can. Let them know that you’re there for them and that you support them no matter what.

If your college student is struggling with social anxiety, there are things you can do as a parent to help. Talk to their college about accommodations, encourage them to seek counseling, help them develop a support system at school, and stay involved in their life at college. With your love and support, they’ll be able to overcome this hurdle and succeed in their studies.

Written By Marc Lehman, Owner and Family Therapist at

U ARE HEARD LLC

It’s hard to believe that another semester has flown by so quickly! If you’re the parent of a college student, there are a few things you can do to help your child finish strong and get ready for winter break. From ensuring that all assignments are turned in on time to helping your student make a plan for post-graduation, here’s a checklist of things every parent of a college student should be doing at the end of the semester.

1. Check in with your student regularly. The end of the semester is a busy time for everyone, but it’s especially hectic for college students. Between final exams, papers, and projects, your child may be feeling overwhelmed. Checking in regularly will help you ensure that your student is staying on top of everything and not getting too stressed out.

2.  Help your student make a plan for post-graduation. If your child is graduating this semester or next, now is the time to start making plans for life after college. Whether your child is looking for a job or planning to go to grad school, sit down and help them map out their next steps. This will give them a sense of direction and purpose as they begin this new chapter in their lives.

3. Make sure all assignments are turned in on time. The end of the semester is notorious for being crammed with deadlines. Help your student stay organized by making sure all assignments are turned in on time. This will help them finish the semester on a high note and avoid any last-minute scrambling.

4. Encourage your student to take some time for themselves. With everything that’s going on, it’s important for your student to take some time for themselves. Encourage them to relax and recharge before heading into winter break. A little rest and relaxation now will help them come back refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes their way next semester.

The end of the semester can be a busy and stressful time for college students—but with a little help from their parents, they can finish strong and get ready for the holiday break! By checking in regularly, helping with post-graduation plans, and making sure all assignments are turned in on time, parents can play an important role in helping their students succeed. So if you’re the parent of a college student, use this checklist as your guide to navigate the end of the semester like a pro!

Written By Marc Lehman, Owner and Family Therapist at

U ARE HEARD LLC

Going away to college is an exciting time for any student. They are finally out on their own, away from the watchful eyes of their parents, and ready to start making their own decisions. However, this newfound freedom can sometimes lead to students making poor decisions that can have lasting consequences. Here are some tips on how to avoid making poor decisions while away at college.

1. Know your limits. It is important to know your personal limits when it comes to alcohol and drugs. College is often times when students are first introduced to partying and drinking, and it can be easy to get caught up in the moment and drink or use drugs more than you should. However, it is important to know your limits so that you don’t end up doing something you regret or putting yourself in danger. If you do find yourself in a situation where you have had too much to drink, make sure you have a plan in place to get home safely.

 

2. Be aware of your surroundings. Another way to avoid making poor decisions while away at college is to be aware of your surroundings. This means knowing who your friends are and being aware of your surroundings when you are out at night. If you feel like you are in a situation that is getting out of control or makes you feel uncomfortable, it is important to trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation. There is no shame in leaving a party or bar if you don’t feel safe—your safety is always more important than anything else.

 

3. Think before you act. It can be easy to make impulsive decisions while away at college, but it is important to take a step back and think about the possible consequences of your actions before you do anything. This doesn’t mean you can’t let loose and have fun while you are away at school, but it does mean being mindful of the choices you are making and thinking about how they could affect your future.

 

Making poor decisions while away at college can have lasting consequences, so it is important to be mindful of the choices you are making. Know your personal limits when it comes to alcohol and drugs, be aware of your surroundings, and think before you act. By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that you make the best choices for yourself while away at school.

Written By Marc Lehman, Owner and Family Therapist at

U ARE HEARD LLC

The college selection process can be a daunting and anxiety-inducing time for both students and their parents. With so many schools to choose from and factors to consider, it’s no wonder that the majority of students report feeling stressed out during this time. However, there are ways to keep your anxiety low and make the process a bit less overwhelming.

Here are a few tips:

Create a List of Priorities

One of the best ways to narrow down your college choices is to create a list of priorities. What is most important to you? Do you want to be close to home? Do you want a school with a strong academic reputation? Do you want a school with a lot of extracurricular activities? Once you have answered these questions, you will be in a much better position to start making some decisions.

Do Your Research

Before making any final decisions, it is important to do your research. This means visiting the websites of each of the schools on your list, reading up on their programs and facilities, and talking to people who have attended or are currently attending the school. The more information you have, the easier it will be to make an informed decision.

Talk to Your Parents/Guardians

Your parents or guardians are likely helping you pay for college, so they should have a say in where you ultimately decide to go. Talk to them about your thoughts and feelings regarding the college selection process. They may have some sage advice that can help you make your decision.

Making the decision about which college to attend can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. By creating a list of priorities, doing your research, and talking to your parents or guardians, you can make the process much easier on yourself. So, take a deep breath and relax—you’ve got this!

 

Written By Marc Lehman, Owner and Family Therapist at

U ARE HEARD LLC

The college application process can be stressful, and one of the most difficult decisions you’ll have to make is whether to apply Early Decision or Regular Decision. Both have their pros and cons, so how do you know which one is right for you? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about Early Decision vs Regular Decision so that you can make an informed decision for your future.

What is Early Decision?

Early Decision is a binding financial agreement between the student and the college. If the student is accepted, they are required to attend that school and withdraw all other applications. Early Decision applications are typically due in November, and students will receive their decision by mid-December.

What is Regular Decision?

Regular Decision applications are not binding, which means that students are not required to attend the school if they are accepted. Students will usually receive their decision January-March.

What are the Pros and Cons of Early Decision?

Applying Early Decision can increase your chances of getting into your first-choice school because admissions committees give priority to Early Decision applicants. Additionally, if you’re applying to a competitive school, applying Early Decision may increase your chances of being accepted since regular decision applicants make up a larger pool of applicants. On the flip side, however, if you’re not accepted into your first-choice school through Early Decision, you won’t have any other options since you’ve already committed to attending that school if accepted.

What are the Pros and Cons of Regular Decision?

The main advantage of applying Regular Decision is that it gives you more time to complete your applications and decide which schools you want to apply to. Additionally, if you’re not sure about your first-choice school or you’re worried about getting in, applying Regular Decision gives you the option of attending another school if you’re not accepted into your first choice. However, one downside to applying Regular Decision is that it may be harder to get into your top choice since there will be more applicants vying for spots.

Making the decision between Early Decision and Regular Decision can be tough, but it’s important to weigh all of the pros and cons before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice comes down to what’s best for YOU and YOUR future. Be sure to consult with your parents, teachers, or guidance counselors before making any final decisions.