Help Empower Your Child To Seek Support For Their Mental Health: The Role Of Stronger Parent-Child Connections

As young adults step into college and beyond, a certain distance from home can be expected. What’s less visible, but no less real, is the emotional gap that can emerge between what parents perceive and what their children actually experience, especially when it comes to mental health.

New research from UnitedHealthcare’s College Student & Graduate Behavioral Health Report highlights this potential disconnect. When asked to describe changes in their current mental or behavioral health since high school, one in five students reported a decline in mental health, but only one in ten parents recognized that shift. And although college graduates talk with their parents about mental health more often than current students do, the “parent-child perception gap” more than doubles after graduation.

These findings highlight that parental awareness remains vital, even as children take on new levels of independence. And that awareness is more impactful when it’s consistent. The report found that more frequent conversations between young adults and their parents are tied to more positive outcomes — stronger relationships, feeling heard and understood, and feeling supported when navigating challenges.

"Parents may not see every challenge their young adult faces," says Dr. Nicole Brady, Chief Medical Officer at UnitedHealthcare Student Resources. "But when families establish open, consistent conversations about mental health, they can build a foundation where young adults feel supported enough to seek help when needed."

Parents who normalize conversations about emotional well-being — not just during tough moments, but routinely — may set the tone for trust. Asking open-ended questions like “How are you feeling about everything?” or “What’s been on your mind lately?” may lower the pressure, especially if those questions are paired with active listening rather than immediate advice.

Those conversations aren’t just supportive, they’re protective. UnitedHealthcare’s report found that more frequent check-ins help young adults feel understood and make them more likely to reach out when something’s wrong — and with nearly half of college students and one-third of graduates still on their family’s health insurance plan, parents may remain key players in helping young adults access mental health services.

Understanding what benefits are available, from virtual therapy to crisis support, to on-campus support may prevent delays at a critical moment.

“Knowing what resources exist — whether through a student health plan or their family policy – means that if a young adult reaches out, the family can act quickly instead of scrambling to figure out next steps,” says Dr. Brady.

Importantly, parents often assume their children are turning to adults for support. In reality, students and graduates self-report leaning primarily on peers. That gap in perception means it’s even more crucial for families to stay involved, not by intruding, but by staying engaged, present, and informed.

The transition to adulthood brings new stressors — the pressures of college, career uncertainties, and independent living — all of which may shift mental health needs in ways that may not be immediately visible. Spotting early signs, like changes in behavior or sleep, is helpful. But it’s the combination of recognition, communication, and access that may truly equip families to help.

Strong parent-child relationships don’t stop being important once childhood ends. For many young adults, knowing there’s someone who listens without judgment — and who can help them navigate toward care — may make all the difference. Open dialogue isn't just a sign of closeness. It’s a tool for resilience.

Healthcare disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. If you are seeking medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider.

BDG Media newsroom and editorial staff were not involved in the creation of this content.