As the academic year progresses, many Canadian university and college students are grappling with intense pressure, leading to a state of burnout. In a recent interview, a family physician provided essential guidance for parents looking to support their children through these challenging times.
Recognizing the Signs of Student Burnout
Family physician Dr. Vera Kohut spoke with CTV's Your Morning on December 21, 2025, to address this growing concern. She emphasized that burnout in post-secondary students often manifests as more than just typical tiredness. Parents should be alert to significant changes in their child's behavior, such as increased irritability, social withdrawal, a marked decline in academic performance, or expressions of hopelessness.
Dr. Kohut explained that the transition to higher education involves immense academic, social, and financial pressures. When these combine, they can overwhelm a student's usual coping mechanisms. "It's a critical period where young adults are forming their independence, yet they still very much need a supportive safety net," she noted.
Practical Strategies for Parental Support
So, what can parents do? Dr. Kohut outlined several actionable steps. First and foremost, she advises opening lines of communication without judgment. Instead of asking pointed questions about grades, try initiating conversations about their overall well-being, friendships, and how they are managing their new responsibilities.
Secondly, parents can help by normalizing the struggle. Reminding students that it's okay to find things difficult and to ask for help is powerful. Encourage them to utilize on-campus resources, such as counselling services, academic advisors, and peer support groups, which are typically included in their tuition fees.
Building Resilience and Seeking Help
Another key area is helping students build healthy routines. Parents can gently encourage habits that support mental health from a distance:
- Prioritizing regular sleep schedules.
- Encouraging physical activity and time outdoors.
- Discussing time management strategies to avoid last-minute cramming.
- Reminding them to take breaks and engage in hobbies.
Dr. Kohut also stressed that parents must know when to suggest professional help. If signs of burnout escalate into symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, guiding a child toward their campus health centre or a family doctor is a crucial step. Early intervention can prevent a crisis.
A Collaborative Approach to Student Well-being
The expert's advice underscores a shift from a purely academic focus to a holistic view of student success. Supporting a young adult's mental health during their post-secondary journey is a collaborative effort. While students must navigate their own path, knowing they have a supportive, understanding, and non-critical home base in their parents can make a profound difference in their ability to cope with stress and avoid burnout.
Dr. Kohut's insights, shared in the December 2025 interview, serve as a timely resource for families across Canada as they support the next generation through the demanding landscape of higher education.
