6 Mental Health Tips for Moving Back in with Your Parents

If you’ve recently moved back in with your parents, you might feel you’re falling back into your childhood and getting stuck in old family dynamics. Whether you came home for financial reasons, a difficult life transition, or other personal choices, saying goodbye to independent living can bring up a mix of complicated emotions.

If you’re feeling a little awkward as you settle back into life at home, just know that you’re not alone. Today, uncertain economic conditions and the rising cost of living have pushed many young adults to move back in with their parents. These suggestions will help you care for your mental health while maintaining your autonomy.

1. Set Clear Boundaries Early

As a child, your parents had the final say in what you could and couldn’t do. Now that you’re living under their roof again as an adult, you have the right to set your own boundaries while respecting the way your parents run their household.

For example, if you work from home, you may need to talk to your parents about noise levels around your room or home office during working hours. You can also discuss which chores your parents want you to pitch in with, and how often.

2. Communicate Your Expectations Openly

Right now, you and your parents might have unspoken expectations about everyone’s roles in the household, your financial contributions, and more. This is why it’s so important to talk about your individual expectations clearly. Yes, it might feel a little awkward at first! Be honest about your needs, and make an effort to stay receptive to your parents’ needs, too.

3. Protect Your Sense of Independence

When you move back home, it can be easy to slip into relying on your parents more and more often. But depending on your parents too heavily can make you feel like you’re regressing.

Even if you’re on a budget, try to cover some of your own expenses. Create a daily routine for getting work done or applying to jobs. Stay focused on your future. Continue working towards your goals so that you can re-establish your independence down the line.

4. Practice Emotional Regulation

Every family has its own quirks. Your parents might have some habits or beliefs that you find frustrating. Now that you’re in the same house again, you have to find a way to get along, regardless.

When you were younger, you might have gotten angry with your parents. But as an adult, practicing emotional regulation and self-compassion can go a long way. Lean into your grounding techniques, and be prepared to step away from heated discussions so that you can keep the peace.

5. Create a Plan for the Future

Right now, you might not have a set timeline for moving out of your parents’ house. Without a structured plan, you may feel a little lost. Take some time to outline your short-term and long-term goals. Break down the steps you’ll need to take to achieve them. Having a future-focused mindset can ease your feelings of stagnation.

6. Connect with Your Social Circle

Don’t withdraw from your friendships just because you’ve moved back home. Chances are, some people in your social circle are in the same boat! Reach out to your friends in the area, call your friends who live further away, or make plans to visit them when possible.

Getting out of your bubble at home can revive your spark! If you need further support, you might want to reach out to a therapist who supports young adults through life transitions.

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Are you struggling with your mental health after moving back in with your parents? We offer stress management counseling to help you through this transition—or even family therapy if you're looking for an unbiased third party. Reach out to us to discuss your options for scheduling your first session.