Empty nest? Time to embrace the possibilities

When children leave home, parents or other caregivers can find themselves in the throes of empty nest syndrome. This means they experience marked sadness, loneliness and grief when their child exits the nest. During this transitory period, parents can go through profound feelings of loss.

Sometimes, there is anticipatory grief as they realize that in a short time their child will be leaving home. Parenting is typically a full-time commitment. Not every parent behaves the same, but generally parenthood involves dedicated time, energy, resources and most of all love.

That involvement naturally holds a huge space in a parent’s psyche. So when there is a sizable change, a void can be mentally and emotionally felt.

Not everyone undergoes empty nest syndrome. In fact, many parents are quite relieved and excited about their newfound freedom. Some of those parents have a plan to follow in their recently discovered space, while others hold it all loosely.

Have you had a child move out? If so, how do you feel as you think about it? Avoidance of thinking about it is one strategy, but that only delays the inevitable. Allowing yourself to recognize the reality of change can be a solid first step in effectively moving through this phase.

Allow yourself your emotions, and cry if you feel inclined. Be patient with yourself.

Consider that you are entering a new phase of parenting. Reframe that new period to be more of a mentoring stage. Your parental guidance will continue to be needed. Your parenting role, in some ways, will never truly end.

Your life as an empty nester holds many possibilities and opportunities. Now is the time to develop your interests further and to enjoy connections with friends and others. It may require courage, but moving forward serves everyone, including your child.