When your college freshman returns home after a rocky first year—whether due to partying, poor academic performance, or emotional and mental health challenges—it can leave both parents and students feeling uncertain. You’re likely asking yourself a tough question: should they go back to college or take a break? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but with patience, strategy, and compassion, you can help your young adult regain direction, overcome obstacles, and move toward both academic and emotional success.
What Does the Data Show?
Nationally, about 24.1% of college freshmen drop out within their first year (National Center for Education Statistics [NCES], 2023). Common causes include financial stress, lack of academic preparedness, or challenges adjusting to independence. While some students can find fulfilling careers without a college degree, data suggests that those without a bachelor’s degree earn approximately 32.6% less than their peers who graduate (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics [BLS], 2024).
These statistics suggest that, while stepping away from college may seem appealing in the short term, returning—when your student is ready—may be crucial for long-term financial stability and personal growth.
Assess the Causes of Their Struggles
Understanding the root of the issue is critical. Academic struggles often arise from:
- Lack of Self-Discipline: The freedom of college life can overwhelm students who haven’t yet developed time management or study habits.
- Loneliness and Isolation: A weak social support system can lead to depression or disengagement.
- Excessive Socializing: When parties take precedence over studying, grades inevitably suffer.
- Burnout or Lack of Motivation: Some students feel exhausted from years of schooling or aren’t sure why they’re in college to begin with.
- Substance Abuse: Easy access to alcohol and drugs on campus can lead to habits that derail academic focus.
- Mental Health Challenges: Depression, anxiety, trauma, or other psychological issues are significant factors in academic withdrawal.
Understanding which of these issues apply to your student will allow you to offer targeted support.
Offer a Supportive Environment
When your child returns home, create a non-judgmental environment. Criticism may only push them further into isolation. Instead, assure them that your love is unconditional and your home is a safe space for open dialogue. By building trust, you’ll encourage them to share openly about their struggles and be more receptive to support (Reynolds, 2022).
Encourage Reflection and Accountability
Ask your student to reflect on the past year. What went wrong? What lessons did they learn? Reflection encourages ownership. Once they recognize their part in the setbacks, they can begin rebuilding their academic and personal life. Help them set realistic goals, break tasks into manageable chunks, and prioritize improvement rather than perfection.
Remind Them Why College Matters
Interest in higher education has declined recently, with 29% of students reporting in 2022 that inflation and financial pressures influenced their decision not to return to school (Gallup & Lumina Foundation, 2022). However, long-term data continues to affirm the value of a college degree. Reminding your student about the broader benefits of education—including career opportunities and personal growth—can rekindle their motivation.
Beware of Greek Life Pitfalls
While Greek life offers social opportunities, it can also exacerbate risky behaviors. Studies have found that over 50% of binge drinking incidents occur in fraternity or sorority settings (White & Hingson, 2014). If your student’s issues stemmed from this environment, encourage alternative ways to socialize and build a sense of belonging.
Seek Professional Help
If your student is dealing with mental health concerns, professional support is essential. Many young adults feel overwhelmed when seeking help on their own, so assist them in finding a therapist or counselor. Mental health services can teach stress management, coping strategies, and emotional resilience—tools that will benefit them far beyond college.
Consider a Semester Off or a Modified Return
Sometimes, a break from school is necessary. Use this time for reflection, work experience, volunteering, or mental health treatment. But make the break intentional and structured, with a clear plan for eventual reentry. In other cases, a part-time return with fewer classes might be the best of both worlds—allowing for continued progress without excessive pressure.
Promote Growth Through Action
Encourage your student to take on responsibilities during their time away—whether through a job, internship, or volunteering. Engaging in meaningful activity builds self-worth, enhances skills, and offers real-world perspective. These experiences often reignite motivation to return to school with renewed purpose.
Conclusion
Helping your college freshman rebound from a tough first year is not about punishment or pressure—it’s about partnership. With empathy, strategy, and the right resources, your young adult can recover from early setbacks, develop the skills they need to thrive, and continue down a path that leads to lasting success.
New Dimensions Can Help!
New Dimensions provides Intensive Outpatient Treatment Programs (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization (PHP) for adolescents and adults who are struggling with mental health or substance abuse issues. If you have a young adult who is struggling, we can help them get back on track. We have both in-person and virtual online treatment options. To learn more, contact us at 800-685-9796 or visit our website at www.nddtreatment.com. You can also visit www.mhthrive.com to learn more about individual therapy treatment options.
References
- Gallup & Lumina Foundation. (2022). The State of Higher Education 2022 Report. https://www.gallup.com/education/389344/state-higher-education-2022-report.aspx
- National Center for Education Statistics. (2023). Undergraduate Retention and Graduation Rates. https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/ctr
- Reynolds, J. (2022). Parenting Emerging Adults: A Guide for Navigating Early Adulthood. Academic Press.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Earnings and Unemployment Rates by Educational Attainment. https://www.bls.gov/emp/chart-unemployment-earnings-education.htm
- White, A., & Hingson, R. (2014). The burden of alcohol use: Excessive drinking and college students. Alcohol Research: Current Reviews, 35(2), 201–218.