Pscychoterapists Amy Exum and Graciela Jimenez agree that when the child finishes school, it can be a time of stress and anxiety for them and their parents and it can cause depression. “Having an open conversation is so important, because a lot of times we can transfer or pass on our anxiety to other people,” says Exum.

Jimenez adds that child independence is a good thing, as if he’s accepted in a good college. “But there’s anxiety because you’re not going to be there and watch out for them and who’s going to help them,” she adds.