Red Flag Behaviors Not to Ignore in Your Emerging Adult

As your child transitions into emerging adulthood, it can be challenging to balance giving them the freedom to grow while still ensuring they are making safe and healthy choices. This period is marked by exploration and change as they navigate their education, career, and relationships. However, certain behaviors can signal underlying issues that may require attention and intervention. Being aware of red flag behaviors in an emerging adult is crucial for providing the right support and guidance during this transformative phase.

Red Flag Behaviors to Watch For

Here are some behaviors that may indicate deeper issues and require attention:

1. Substance Abuse

Experimentation with alcohol or drugs can be common during this stage, but consistent use or reliance can signal substance abuse issues.

• Frequent Use: Regular use of drugs or alcohol, particularly if it interferes with daily responsibilities or relationships, is concerning.
• Behavior Changes: Noticeable changes in behavior, mood swings, or secrecy about activities may indicate substance abuse.
• Neglecting Responsibilities: Failing to meet academic, work, or personal responsibilities due to substance use is a red flag.

What to Do:

• Open Dialogue: Approach the topic with empathy and openness, encouraging them to share their experiences and feelings without judgment.
• Offer Support: Encourage seeking help from professionals, such as counselors or addiction specialists, and provide resources for support.

2. Mental Health Struggles

Emerging adulthood can be a time of mental health challenges, with increased stress from academic, career, and social pressures.

• Signs of Depression: Persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep or appetite, and withdrawal from social interactions can indicate depression.
• Anxiety Symptoms: Excessive worry, restlessness, and avoidance of certain situations can be signs of anxiety disorders.
• Suicidal Thoughts: Any mention of self-harm or suicidal thoughts should be taken seriously and addressed immediately.

What to Do:

• Encourage Professional Help: Support your emerging adult in seeking professional mental health services, such as therapy or counseling. If they are struggling to find a career direction, a life coach or career coach can be a wonderful way for them to discover their path.
• Be Supportive: Offer a listening ear and provide emotional support, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength.

3. Academic or Work Issues

Struggles in academic or work environments can be a red flag for underlying issues.

• Declining Performance: A noticeable drop in academic performance or work productivity may indicate stress or other problems.
• Lack of Motivation: A persistent lack of motivation or interest in studies or work can signal deeper issues.
• Frequent Absences: Missing classes or work regularly can be a sign of avoidance or other underlying challenges.

What to Do:

• Identify Underlying Issues: Engage in conversations to understand the root causes of these issues and explore possible solutions.
• Provide Support: Encourage time management skills, offer assistance with finding academic resources, or explore career counseling.

4. Unhealthy Relationships

Relationships play a significant role in emerging adulthood, and unhealthy patterns can have lasting effects.

• Controlling Behavior: Signs of controlling or manipulative behavior from a partner or friend are concerning.
• Isolation: Withdrawing from family and friends due to a relationship may indicate an unhealthy dynamic.
• Frequent Conflicts: Constant arguments or emotional distress related to relationships can be red flags.

What to Do:

• Encourage Open Communication: Discuss the importance of healthy relationships and encourage them to share their experiences.
• Offer Guidance: Provide resources or suggest seeking advice from relationship counselors if needed.

5. Risky or Impulsive Behaviors

While some risk-taking is natural during emerging adulthood, consistent risky or impulsive behaviors can signal deeper issues.

• Impulsive Decisions: Making sudden, risky decisions without considering consequences can be a concern.
• Legal Issues: Engaging in illegal activities or getting into legal trouble is a serious red flag.
• Financial Irresponsibility: Consistently making poor financial decisions or accumulating debt can indicate a lack of responsibility.

What to Do:

• Discuss Consequences: Have open discussions about the potential consequences of risky behaviors and encourage responsible decision-making. Be clear about your financial and personal boundaries.
• Seek Professional Help: If impulsive behavior is a pattern, consider seeking guidance from a mental health professional.

6. Social Withdrawal

While it’s normal for interests to change, excessive social withdrawal can indicate underlying problems.

• Avoiding Social Interactions: Persistent avoidance of social activities or isolation from friends and family is concerning.
• Loss of Interest: A sudden loss of interest in hobbies or activities they once enjoyed can be a sign of deeper issues.

What to Do:

• Encourage Engagement: Support them in finding social activities or groups that align with their interests and provide positive reinforcement.
• Explore Underlying Causes: Gently explore the reasons for social withdrawal and offer support or resources to address these issues.

Recognizing and addressing red flag behaviors in your emerging adult is crucial for their well-being and development. While it's important to give them space to grow, staying informed and involved in their lives allows you to provide necessary support and guidance. Encourage open communication, offer resources, and seek professional help when needed. By doing so, you can help your emerging adult navigate challenges and foster a healthy, independent adulthood.