When your student is doing too much (+ some exciting news)


Hi Reader,

Two things for you today.


1. A conversation worth sharing with your student

This week I sat down with Alysa, our summer college intern, for a candid conversation about something almost every student struggles with: taking on too much.

We cover:

  • How to recognize the signs that you’re heading toward burnout
  • The group project problem (and how to actually share the load)
  • How to ask for help without feeling guilty
  • Communicating with roommates
  • Simple, practical self-care that doesn’t require a complete life overhaul

What I love about this conversation is that it comes from two angles: 1) my perspective as a psychologist and 2) Alysa’s lived experience as a student right now.

If your student has ever been drowning in assignments, obligations, and expectations, send this their way.

▶️ Watch here:
Not Taking On Too Much As A Student


2. Something I'm building, and I’d love your help

Over the past eight months, I’ve been having conversations with universities about a new kind of support for students: student-led body doubling sessions.

If you haven’t heard of body doubling, it’s the simple but powerful practice of working alongside someone else to stay focused and accountable. Think of it as a structured study buddy session, run by students, for students.

I’m excited to share that we have a pilot program set to run at a university this coming fall. Today I had a conversation with another university that’s interested in a spring 2027 pilot.

This is growing, and I’d love to bring it to more campuses.

Two quick asks:

  • Do you work at a university? I’d love to connect about what this could look like on your campus.
  • Want your student to have access at their university? Let's start that conversation. Just hit reply and let me know where they’re studying.

Every student deserves tools that actually help them focus and thrive. This is one of them.

Hit reply and let me know. I read every response.

Take care,
Dr. Parke

THROUGH THE WATERS

We help university students move forward with the next steps in their education, friendships, and future.

Online community, courses, and training to help students with stress and anxiety--available anytime, anywhere.


Disclaimer: This information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Reading this email, engaging with our online content, or downloading our products does not comprise a professional relationship. Please contact a local mental health professional for specific advice regarding your situation. If you are in crisis, please contact local emergency services if needed.

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Through The Waters

I'm a psychologist helping 1,500+ parents guide their students through their university years. I share tips, tools, and conversations that you can share with your kid. Why? Because they're in a uniquely stressful, transitional time in their lives (and so are you). Stress or anxiety should not be a main character in any student's story. Together let's help your kid move forward with the next steps in their education, friendships, and future. Subscribe now to join us.

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