Grief, depression, a loss of purpose and a sense of sadness may be experienced when children enter their own relationships or when they start their careers. Women normally suffer more than do men and feelings of sadness may be more pronounced among women were full-time mothers.
Empty nest syndrome is not a clinical disorder or diagnosis. It is a transitional period in life that highlights loneliness and loss. Parents want to encourage their children to grow into independent adults. However, the experience is often bittersweet or emotionally challenging.
A parent can keep in touch with their child via weekly text, email, or phone calls. In times of stress and loneliness, reaching out for social support can also be helpful. In addition, diligent self-care—in the form of a healthy diet, plenty of sleep, exercise, and downtime—is recommended.
Instead of focusing attention on the child’s departure, some people cope with the transition through hobbies, travel, friendships, and career or education goals.
One’s identity may need to be reshaped, from parent of a child to parent of an adult child; this adjustment takes time.
From
Psychology Today
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