How to Support Them in the New Year
The New Year is more than just a fresh start. For young adults, it represents a moment to reset, reflect, and realign with who they want to become. That symbolism isn't lost on them. They feel the shift and the opportunity. Just like us, they want to grow.
One of the most impactful ways to support them right now is by encouraging responsible independence. That doesn’t mean backing off completely. It means helping them build confidence in their decision-making while showing them how to seek support when they need it. This is creating space where they start to trust their ability to make good decisions. As a parent, that can be hard, especially when we know they’re still learning. Sometimes it’s easier to jump in and fix things, but if we always do that, we become the default solution.
Take something as simple as waking up on time. If you’re the one pulling off the blankets and flipping on the lights every morning, over time they may stop feeling the need to respond to their own alarms. Natural consequences, like being late and dealing with the outcome, are what help them grow. That discomfort teaches them to adapt, to plan ahead, and to take ownership.
The same goes for setting boundaries around screen time and other privileges. It might be tempting to avoid the conflict, especially when life is already stressful. However, clear expectations tied to academic goals or responsibilities help establish real-world accountability. The key here is to stay calm and neutral. Consequences don't have to come with emotional heat. They’re just part of life, and treating them that way helps young adults internalize that reality.
Remind them too that small wins matter more than big resolutions. Massive goals like "get all A+’s" sound inspiring, but often create pressure that backfires. Instead, support them in setting achievable steps, like reading through each syllabus, noting office hours, or reviewing feedback from past semesters. Those habits build the foundation for strong outcomes.
Also, remember that progress doesn’t always look like a straight line. Especially for young adults with ADHD, facing real challenges head-on can look messy. What seems like a step back might actually be a breakthrough in disguise.
If you're feeling the pressure of trying to hold it all together for them, that’s exactly where we can help. We serve as a bridge, supporting your young adult’s growth while giving you the breathing room to step back without stepping away.