Mental Fitness in young adults (19–25 years)
As your teen becomes a young adult, they might continue their education, start a career, begin to explore serious relationships, or move out on their own. This can be a difficult time of transition for both of you. It’s important that you continue to support and guide them while allowing them more responsibility and independent decision-making.
Mental and emotional development for young adults
When young adults leave home, they often face risky situations. Continue to have conversations about peer pressure, good decisions, and consequences. But most importantly, make sure your young adult knows that you will always be there for them if they ever need to talk.
Young adults can also take control of their mental fitness by getting the right amount of sleep and exercise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following sleep and physical activity guidelines for young adults.
Sleep needs (per 24 hours)
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Physical activity recommendations
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7 or more hours
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Get at least:
- 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity exercise, or
- At least 75 minutes per week of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity
Include muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days/week
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Ways to support mental fitness for young adults
One of the best ways to support your young adult is by talking openly about major life changes ahead. Discuss what those changes entail, feelings that may arise, and plans for those changes to help smooth the transition.
Other ways to support your young adult include:
- Check that your young adult knows where to access emergency or urgent care for both physical and mental health needs. Most colleges have student health centers on campus, and your young adult can locate the health centers near their home or workplace.
- Make sure your young adult has health insurance and explain how to access and use it. Many young adults have coverage under their parents’ plans through age 26, or they can get it through their college or employer.
Stay in touch with your young adult
Keep in contact with your young adult and ask how they’re doing with their studies, work, friends, and other activities. It’s important to let them know you care about what they’re doing and how they’re feeling.
Even if your young adult wants space, they may still need help navigating adult responsibilities. They might miss their high school life and friends. Encourage them to maintain those friendships and form new ones through work or other interests.
Know that it’s normal for young people on their own to feel sad, homesick, or a bit lost at times. If these feelings linger or affect their ability to work, your young adult should seek help and know it’s normal to do so. Watch for warning signs and be prepared to seek professional help, if necessary.
