The Need for Assistance Among Pre-Adults Transitioning to Independent Living

The end of high school marks the start of a journey for older children to take the exciting step of beginning their life of independent living. But without constant support of parents, managing everything from rent, home duties, groceries; all the while balancing studies and part time work can be quite the juggle. 

This major shift in life can lead to many students being overburdened and burning out. Studies from WHO indicate a rise in mental health issues particularly in adolescent children. In the US alone, the study shows that one in five children suffer from some form of mental health disorder.  

This blog offers practical guidance to help you through this difficult stage as you transition through to independence. 

Keep a Notebook

Moving out without getting help from parents is stressful. Keeping a notebook to organize your thoughts and plans reduces stress. Write down your strategy, daily schedule, and questions you may have. Monitoring your successes and struggles enables you to see clearly what still needs to be accomplished. 

For example, make a note of questions such as: Who will handle certain tasks? What items will I need to take with me? Which books should I procure before moving to campus? When is my first lecture going to begin?   

Keeping yourself organized will help with mental clarity, preventing the burden from becoming too heavy, which is crucial in maintaining emotional stability. 

Don’t Rush the Process

The moving process is not as easy as it looks; it takes longer than you think. Patience is crucial for everyone, including you. You've held on to so much stuff that it is not only physically exhausting but also mentally draining when sorting them out. Rushing through this process can lead to burnout, anxiety, and feelings of defeat. 

Set a schedule to stay on track, but be kind to yourself when things take longer than planned. The mental exhaustion from trying to finish too quickly can push you to your limits, triggering overwhelming feelings and even depression. Accepting that it’s okay to take your time will reduce stress and maintain mental balance.

Create a Folder of Important Documents

Keep track of crucial documents like medical records, military papers, passports, and legal agreements in one dedicated folder. Losing important papers adds unnecessary stress to this difficult time. 

By having everything organized and easily accessible, you can avoid unnecessary frustration and protect your mental well-being. When everything feels chaotic, the simple act of knowing where your important documents are can make you calm.

Let Go of Unused Items

We’ve all bought things we thought would be useful but barely touched. Moving into a smaller, independent living space means you won’t have room for everything. It is the perfect opportunity to let go of these unused items. Holding onto unnecessary belongings only creates more physical and emotional baggage. 

Most of the time, a confused mind originates from a disorganized environment, which leads to poor decision-making. However, with some clarity and simple ideas, it is possible to find ways for getting rid of clutter in your life. In fact, this mental clarity helps you remain centered within yourself and positively influenced your mental health.

Recreate Some of Your Home in Your New Space

To feel more comfortable, bring cherished items from your current home to your new place. This will make the unfamiliar environment feel more welcoming and comforting. Surrounding yourself with familiar items can provide emotional security, especially during tough times. Your mental health can benefit from this comforting presence, giving you a sense of belonging in a new and unfamiliar space.

Final Thoughts

Moving into independent living is a big step, filled with excitement and new experiences, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming at times. The key is to stay organized, go at your own pace, and clear out things you no longer need; it will help ease your stress and keep you focused. 

Surrounding yourself with familiar and comforting items can make your new space feel more like home. And remember, taking care of your mental health is more important than anything. If you ever feel stuck or down, don't hesitate to ask for help. This journey to independence isn’t a race, and with the right support, you can navigate it while keeping both your mind and body healthy.

If you're feeling overwhelmed during this transition, don't hesitate to seek help. Online therapy for college students offers flexible, accessible support to manage stress, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. Reach out to Embrace Connection Counseling and take control of your mental health.