Written by Jenny Catton
As parents prepare for their children to leave the family home for the first time, it can cause a range of different emotions. Some parents look forward to gaining back their time, money and space. Others dread the day their children will fly the nest and wish that their kids could stay at home forever. The truth is that it’s natural for children to leave the parental home when the time is right and the change needn’t be too painful for parents.
But for some parents the experience can cause extreme sadness and shock which impacts their emotional and physical health. This psychological condition is what’s commonly called ‘empty nest syndrome’.
In some cases, empty nest syndrome can lead to more serious depression, low self-esteem or feelings that life no longer has a purpose. If this happens, it can be a real strain on health and relationships.
But just being aware of empty nest syndrome in advance can help lessen the blow when your children finally do leave home. By planning for your new life, you can look forward to a bright and happy future rather than dreading it.
Here are some tips to help you deal with empty nest syndrome:
- Remember that it’s natural for happy and healthy children to grow up and embrace the world on their own. If they were still living with you into their forties or fifties, you probably wouldn’t be too happy.
- Remind yourself that they are only leaving home; they are not moving out of your life completely.
- Think about new hobbies you might want to take up now that you have extra time and spare cash.
- Get back in touch with old friends who are in a similar situation – it’s much easier to have a varied and active social life once the kids are grown up.
- Enjoy your relationship. Remember that your spouse may be finding the change difficult too but now is a great time to rekindle your romance and enjoy doing the things you enjoyed before the children came along. If you’re a single parent, or divorced it could be the perfect time to start dating again.
For help and advice about family life, visit: http://familylives.org.uk/
