The Parent Pivot

This book provides information, guidance, and, above all, hope for parents struggling to support their young adult children in psychological distress. The period of emerging adulthood (ages 18 to 29) is a psychologically vulnerable time. Many emerging adults are anxious, depressed, or otherwise distressed and may turn to unhealthy coping strategies like drugs, alcohol and risky sexual behaviors. Where parents previously served as caretakers to their young children, they must now "pivot" to new roles as coaches, wise counsels, or compeers--and in some cases back to caretakers of their emerging adult children. This book provides essential information and practical advice to help parents navigate these difficult challenges and deal with their own distress as they assist their struggling emerging adults. The authors describe various mental health symptoms, the difference between normal and more problematic behaviors, and options for professional help and treatment approaches. Not all young adults are willing or able to receive help, whether from family, friends, or professionals. But regardless of their situation, this book offers tips and strategies for how parents can maintain a loving, empathic relationship with their adult child, even in the most challenging circumstances. Written by psychologists with extensive experience helping emerging adults and their families, this book provides invaluable guidance for communicating effectively, setting emotional boundaries, managing collateral damage within the family, practicing self-care, mourning losses, and maintaining compassion for yourself and your young adult. It reflects the complex emotional dynamics occurring both within and between young adults and their parents, and it provides hope for struggling families.