HOUSTON, Sept. 17 (UPI) -- Parents can be on the watch for college students who don't cope well with the challenges and new stresses of the college environment, said a U.S. expert.
Studies show college students who don't cope well with their new life may be at more risk for substance abuse, eating disorders, depression and abusive relationships, said Dr. Edward Poa, of The Menninger Clinic, Baylor College of Medicine, in Houston.
"The first few months of college in particular can be tough," Poa said in a statement.
"For many people it is their first time outside the structure of their home. They have to learn how to manage their own schedules and take care of themselves, shop and manage a budget. They have to build a new social support network from scratch."
Parents shouldn't overreact to every change in their child but they should be aware of any drastic change, changes in habits or mood and changes in grades.
"Be wary if your child is asking for more money than usual, or asking for money more frequently -- they could be going out quite a lot, gambling or spending it on alcohol or drugs," Poa said.
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