Parenting the Launch: Why You Might Need More Support—Not Less—When Your Child Leaves for College or University

As parents, we’re often told that the older our children get, the less support we should need. But the truth is, when your child heads off to university or college, something big shifts in your world—and it deserves attention.

Maybe it’s your first launch. Maybe it’s your last. Either way, this transition isn’t just about dorm shopping and tuition payments. It’s emotional. It’s identity-shaking. And it can stir up waves of grief, anxiety, and uncertainty that catch even the most prepared parent off guard.

Why This Transition Hits Harder Than Expected

Your daily rhythm of caregiving has likely been woven into your nervous system for years. From the small morning check-ins to late-night fridge raids, that connection created a sense of purpose and stability. When it's suddenly interrupted, your body—and your emotions—feel the difference.

Parents often experience:

You might walk past their empty room and feel the ache of absence. Or you might feel surprisingly fine—then suddenly not. There’s no right way to do this, but there are ways to feel supported while you do.

You're Still Their Anchor—Even From Afar

This season is full of unknowns. Your child is growing, stretching, struggling, and recalibrating—and so are you. The relationship hasn’t ended, it’s just evolving. You’re still the safe base, even if the rope stretches a little farther now.

You Deserve Support Too

Every student has access to mental health supports on campus—but what about parents? At Women’s Therapy Centre, we believe this chapter isn’t talked about enough. That’s why we’ve created resources to support you too. Head over to our resource section to check out our When They Leave You Shift for parents, New Beginnings for students and Parenting the Launch webinar for parents.