LIFE

Dear Carol,
My brother just started college, and is living in a dorm. I know he will be OK, but what about my mom? She's very sad about his leaving. Plus, after she adjusts, she's still going to be lonely since my dad goes to work and I go to school. She's by herself a lot, and when I get home, I'm doing homework and my dad is busy with other stuff. How can I let her know I'm there for her, especially since she never wants to talk about this?
–Worried 

Dear Worried,
The transition might be hard, but your mother is lucky that you are still under her roof. It is up to her to find ways to fill her time with meaningful, productive and fun activities-this is not your responsibility. That said, it might be thoughtful to cook with her or run errands or co-host a parent-daughter pumpkin-carving party. It's sweet that you care, and you could leave a note that says, "Mom, I miss him, too. Do you want to take a walk with me tomorrow or decorate the house for Halloween?"

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by Dear Carol | 11/12/2018