“We want to take fix out of our vocabulary and replace it with manage. Many of our stressors and emotions can’t be fixed—they can only be managed.” – Dr. Kelly Greco

Academic success is important, but so is student well-being. As students navigate coursework, exams, extracurricular activities, and future goals, many experience increasing levels of academic stress. While some stress can be motivating, excessive pressure can affect a student’s confidence, mental health, and overall ability to learn.

In Episode 10 of Empower ED: A PIQE Podcast, we sat down with Dr. Kelly Greco, a licensed clinical psychologist and Professor of Clinical Education at the USC Rossier School of Education, to discuss the growing impact of academic stress on students.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Greco explores the pressures students face today, the warning signs families should be aware of, healthy coping strategies, and practical ways parents and caregivers can support their children’s mental health and academic success.

Reflecting on the challenges of parenting, Dr. Greco shared an anonymous quote that resonates with many caregivers: “The hardest part of being a caregiver or a parent is watching them go through hard times and not being able to fix it.” She emphasized that when children are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stressed, one of the most helpful responses is to ask, “What do you need from me? How can I support you?”

“We tend to lean in and try to fix it,” Dr. Greco explained. “But when we fix everything for them, we don’t give them the opportunity to build the skills, self-esteem, and sense of mastery they need.”

One of the strongest protective factors for students is having supportive adults who listen, encourage, and guide them through difficult moments. When students know they have support at home, they are better equipped to navigate setbacks, develop problem-solving skills, and build resilience.

This is a conversation every parent and caregiver can benefit from. We encourage you to listen to the episode and share it with others in your community. The insights and strategies Dr. Greco offers can help families better support their children through academic challenges and life’s inevitable ups and downs.

Listen to the episode:
https://piqe.podbean.com/e/10-academic-stress-and-how-families-can-support-their-students/

About Empower ED: A PIQE Podcast

Empower ED brings together educational leaders, experts, and community voices to provide families with information, resources, and strategies that support student success. Through meaningful conversations, the podcast helps families become informed advocates and active partners in their children’s education.