Empty Nest Syndrome

September marks the start of a new school year—a time of anticipation and change. For many families, this means children embarking on new academic journeys, whether it's starting school for the first time, moving up to a higher grade, or even heading off to university. It's a period filled with preparations, from buying new uniforms and PE kits to stocking up on stationery. Then .... before we know it, our children have grown up and are venturing out into the world. They leave home to pursue higher education or start their careers, marking a significant milestone in their lives.

While we celebrate their achievements and support their new adventures, this transition can also bring about profound changes in our own lives. It can lead to a sense of loss and a questioning of our identity. Who are we when our roles as mothers or fathers shift?

Feelings of grief, emptiness, fear, worry, anxiety, and loneliness can surface as we navigate this new chapter. The once lively home may suddenly feel empty and unfamiliar. It's a challenging time that can leave us feeling stuck and adrift, searching for a new sense of purpose.

Navigating this transition requires patience, self-reflection, and resilience. It's an opportunity to rediscover ourselves, pursue new interests, and embrace the next chapter in our lives. While the house may feel quieter, it can also be a space for personal growth and renewal.

Emotions and symptoms of Empty Nest Syndrome

Grief can be very real, grieving the loss of what was and no longer is.

Emptiness/loss of purpose. Life can seem pointless with no direction and no focus.

Fear and worry. You might be afraid of how life is going to be now and worried about how your child will be and whether they will be ok.

Emotional Distress is caused by the loss of the child being around and the loss of identity and purpose.

Loneliness. Your child may have been a companion for you. Looking after them filled your life with purpose and meaning. The house is empty and quiet

Marital problems can occur, where the children have filled the void of an unhappy marriage and now this must be addressed. Single parents find themselves alone, for sometimes, the first time.

What can you do?

Find new ways of communicating when your child is away, which is mutually benefitting. Perhaps arrange a call at a certain time and day every week. Maybe text in between a little, to help you feel connected.

Find a new hobby or interest, that gives you a different focus and something to talk to your child about.

Take regular exercise. Going for a walk helps to feel more positive and forward thinking.(perhaps join a walking group)

Connect with friends and relatives and tell them how you are feeling and that you need their help.

Look after yourself, now is the time to put yourself first. Have a pamper, book a massage, whatever helps you.

Start a gratitude journal. Write three things down every day that you are grateful for. Do this first thing in the morning, to set yourself up with a positive mindset. At the end of the day think of something that you have achieved, however small.

Invest in yourself. If you are still struggling, get help. A coach can help you find clarity, purpose, and set positive goals for yourself and support you to work towards the goals you have set.

The main thing is to try some, or all these things. Doing nothing will keep you where you are.

Take action.

 . Look after yourself, now is the time to put yourself first. Have a pamper, book a massage, whatever helps you. Start a gratitude journal. Write three things down every day that you are grateful for. Do this first thing in the morning, to set yourself up with a positive mindset. At the end of the day think of something that you have achieved, however small. Invest in yourself. If you are still struggling, get help. A coach can help you find clarity, purpose, and set positive goals for yourself and support you to work towards the goals you have set. The main thing is to try some, or all these things. Doing nothing will keep you where you are. Take action.