Raising Good Humans: College Mental Health 101 with Dr. Christopher Willard

Podcast Information:

• Title: Raising Good Humans
• Host: Dr. Aliza Pressman
• Guest: Professor Christopher Willard
• Episode Release Date: August 15, 2025

Introduction and Context

In this insightful episode of Raising Good Humans, Dr. Aliza Pressman welcomes Professor Christopher Willard to discuss the critical topic of mental health during the transition to college. Drawing from Prof. Willard’s expertise as a Harvard professor and co-author of College Mental Health 101, the conversation delves into the myriad challenges students face as they embark on their college journey and how parents can effectively support them.

“I think what Dr. Willard has done is really made this transition a little bit easier.”
— Dr. Aliza Pressman [00:01]

Understanding the Mental Health Challenges in College Transition

Prof. Willard emphasizes the significant rise in mental health issues among college students, attributing this trend to several converging factors. He highlights the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which have disrupted students' ability to self-regulate and seek help. Additionally, the pervasive influence of social media has both destigmatized mental health discussions and propagated misinformation, complicating students' understanding of their own mental health needs.

“The kids that are getting to college now, we're still part of that pandemic bubble... Their ability to self-regulate, their ability to figure out, how do I reach out and ask for help.”
— Professor Christopher Willard [04:54]

Approaches for Parents of Children with Known Mental Health Struggles

For parents whose children are already navigating mental health challenges, Prof. Willard recommends proactive measures to facilitate a smoother transition. He advocates for early conversations about independence and self-advocacy, starting in high school. Encouraging students to take ownership of their therapy appointments, medication routines, and accommodation requests fosters autonomy while ensuring they remain supported.

“Encouraging them in 9th and 10th grade to be setting their own appointments with their therapist... to be advocating for themselves, for the accommodations they need.”
— Professor Christopher Willard [09:57]

Prof. Willard also advises parents to collaborate with their children in selecting appropriate college environments that align with their mental health needs, such as choosing schools with accessible mental health resources or supportive community structures.

Supporting Parents with Children Who Seem Fine

For parents whose children appear to be managing well, Prof. Willard underscores the importance of setting the foundation for future challenges. He suggests that even those who seem resilient can benefit from establishing routines and self-care practices early on. This preparation equips students to handle the inevitable stresses of college life without feeling overwhelmed.

“Even the ones who seem great, we can set the stage for a time that those transition times can be challenging.”
— Dr. Aliza Pressman [04:08]

Managing Medication Compliance

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the complexities of managing medication for students in college. Prof. Willard highlights the logistical challenges, such as finding new prescribers and adhering to inconsistent college schedules. He recommends implementing structured reminder systems and gradually promoting independence in medication management to reduce familial stress and foster self-reliance.

“The schedule is so inconsistent. You're not waking up at the same time... Building those systems into place throughout junior and senior year with an eye toward independence becomes really important.”
— Professor Christopher Willard [13:22]

Recognizing Crisis vs. Normal Stress (“Crisis or Crappy”)

Prof. Willard introduces the concept of differentiating between temporary struggles and genuine crises. He advises parents to remain calm and regulated to better assess their children's situations. Recognizing persistent issues that span weeks as opposed to fleeting anxieties can help in determining when to seek professional intervention.

“Crisis or crappy. That should be a title. Chapter title. Crisis or crappy.”
— Professor Christopher Willard [49:49]

He emphasizes the importance of teaching students to identify red flags themselves and encouraging them to utilize campus resources before problems escalate.

Building Resilience and Independence in Students

The conversation also explores strategies to build resilience and independence in students. Prof. Willard encourages parents to empower their children by fostering self-advocacy skills and promoting engagement with campus communities. He highlights the role of professors, advisors, and peer groups in providing a support network that students can rely on independently.

“Why are we staying boss or manager without going to consultant, kids don't. They don't know what to do when they're having a big feeling...”
— Professor Christopher Willard [44:35]

Final Thoughts on Parental Roles and Empowering Students

In concluding the discussion, Prof. Willard reflects on the evolving role of parents from being managers to consultants. He stresses the significance of trust and communication in supporting students without micromanaging their lives. By providing guidance and resources while respecting their autonomy, parents can help their children navigate the complexities of college life effectively.

“Trusting the system that's going to hold them in place, not micromanaging... letting them have that space to learn how to swim, learn to fly.”
— Professor Christopher Willard [38:35]

He also touches on the necessity for parents to find their own balance post-transition, encouraging them to reconnect with personal interests and relationships outside of parenting roles.

“Find those empty nest things to reconnect with your friends and other fellow parents around, to reconnect with your spouse or your partner.”
— Professor Christopher Willard [41:43]

Notable Quotes:

• Dr. Aliza Pressman:

  • “I think what Dr. Willard has done is really made this transition a little bit easier.” [00:01]
  • “So what are the red flags to look out for and what are some ways to help them set themselves up for this kind of healthy start?” [26:26]

• Professor Christopher Willard:

  • “The kids that are getting to college now, we're still part of that pandemic bubble... Their ability to self-regulate, their ability to figure out, how do I reach out and ask for help.” [04:54]
  • “Encouraging them in 9th and 10th grade to be setting their own appointments with their therapist...” [09:57]
  • “Crisis or crappy. That should be a title. Chapter title. Crisis or crappy.” [49:49]
  • “Trusting the system that's going to hold them in place, not micromanaging...” [38:35]

This episode provides a comprehensive guide for parents navigating the often daunting transition their children face when heading off to college. By blending expert insights with practical strategies, Dr. Pressman and Prof. Willard offer valuable tools to support students' mental health and foster their independence, ensuring a more joyful and less overwhelming parenting journey.