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What is empty nest syndrome? -

Empty nest syndrome refers to the grief and loneliness that many parents feel when their children move out of home.

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What is empty nest syndrome? -

The grief of empty nest syndrome often goes unrecognized, as an adult child moving out of home is seen as a normal, happy event. 

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Loss of motherhood -

While empty nest syndrome can affect both parents, mothers are the most susceptible. 

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How long does empty nest syndrome last? -

For some, empty nest syndrome is a passing sadness that might only last for a few days or weeks. For some, it may be longer lasting, and lead to depression or anxiety.

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How long does empty nest syndrome last? -

Psychologists believe it may take between 18 months and two years to make the successful transition from "mom" to an independent woman.

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The change is considered stressful -

For some parents, their child moving out is stressful, rather than challenging or refreshing, and can lead to the grief associated with empty nest syndrome.

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Unstable or unsatisfactory marriages -

An unstable marriage makes parents more susceptible to suffering and struggling with empty nest syndrome.

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Warning signs -

Mothers who found weaning their babies from breastfeeding or sending their children to school emotionally painful were more susceptible to suffering from empty nest syndrome.

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Full-time parents -

People who are full-time parents are more often affected by empty nest syndrome than those who have additional responsibilities.

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Fear for their children -

Parents who worry that their children aren't ready for adult responsibilities may experience more grief.

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Single parents -

Research suggests single parents have a higher risk of developing empty nest syndrome, so it's important to have a support network in place.

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Loss of purpose -

Relinquishing the day-to-day duties of parenting can be a tough transition for some parents. It's normal to feel a sense of grief when a significant chapter of your life has come to an end.

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Menopause -

The grief and loneliness of empty nest syndrome can be compounded by other life events happening at the same time as children leaving home, including menopause.

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Emotional distress -

When your child leaves home, you may find yourself emotionally affected by situations or comments that normally wouldn't bother you. 

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Emotional distress -

Parents suffering from empty nest syndrome don't just deal with grief but also sadness that their child has grown up, fears about getting older, and nervousness about the state of their marriage.

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Divorce -

After their children leave home, some couples realize they are no longer compatible, which may lead to divorce. It's important to communicate to be able to navigate these life transitions effectively.

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Prepare for an empty nest -

If your child hasn't left home yet, it's time to start preparing for the inevitable change in your life. Make a list of all your current roles besides being a parent and think about which ones you'd like to expand.

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Planning in advance -

If one of your children has already moved out but you still have others living at home with you, plan in advance for the day when your nest will be empty. Making small changes over time will result in less of a shock when your last child moves out.

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Don't make big decisions -

Wait to make big decisions, like moving to a smaller home, until you feel you have adapted to the change.

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Keep a journal -

Keeping a journal and writing down feelings of sadness or loneliness can help you acknowledge and understand your emotions better.

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Focus on the positives -

Many parents report positive changes after their children leave home, including more freedom, fewer day-to-day stressors, and time to pursue their own goals.

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Focus on the positives -

Some parents report improved relationships with their children once they had left home. 

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Reconnect with your spouse -

Use this time to strengthen your relationship with your partner. Plan regular dates and outings, or start a new hobby together.

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Stay connected with your kids -

Regular phone calls, video calls, or texts with your children can help you feel closer to them even when they're far away.

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Explore old and new hobbies -

Pick up hobbies you enjoyed before you had children or hobbies you never had the time to try. Local groups or clubs that revolve around those interests can also help you find community.

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Reconnect with friends -

Seek advice from your friends who may have also experienced empty nest syndrome, or use the time to reconnect with them.

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Volunteer -

If you find yourself with more free time after your children have left home, why not volunteer for a cause you care about?

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When to seek help -

If you find you are sleeping too much or not enough, are feeling sad, guilty, or worthless, or are having thoughts about death, then you may be experiencing symptoms of depression.

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When to seek help -

Talk with your doctor if you have symptoms of depression lasting more than two weeks. They can recommend treatments like therapy or antidepressant medication if needed.

Sources: (Betterhealth) (WebMD) (Calm)

See also: Signs you were raised by helicopter parents

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