Dealing With an Empty Nest

Empty nest syndrome is a condition that women and yes, even some men, face as their children leave home. Specialists in the field have responded to this syndrome because they see these symptoms as a real psychological condition. While some people may not feel the effects quite so strongly, there are parents who feel this emptiness to such a degree that their lives are burdened by depression and sadness. Generally speaking, this empty nest syndrome hits women much harder than men due to the fact that moms overall, have been the primary caregiver in the family.

For parents who suffer from empty nest syndrome severely, there are support groups available, two such web sites are listed at the end of this article.

While not all parents or moms will react to their children moving away with depression, others may celebrate, and some may just feel a twinge of sadness, understanding that time marches on far too swiftly. It is to all parents that the following tips may come in handy.

The first step is to redo your child's room. Turn it into the office you always wanted but didn't have the space. How about a craft room? A home gym? Or, perhaps a guest room? Store away any items that personal to your child and take back the room.

The second thing you may want to consider would be to find something that interests you. Be it crafts or hobbies, (you now have the room) fill your empty days with something that is important to you. Volunteer your time at mission stores or at nursing homes.

Although not everyone will be in a position to accomplish this to the fullest extent, treat yourself. Weekend get-a-ways, vacations or traveling are great ways to get your mind on the world around you instead of focusing on how quiet the house is.

After years of concentrating your efforts on the family and the kids, pamper yourself a little bit, don't feel guilty, you earned it. Buy some new clothes, get a manicure, massage, pedicure, or schedule a lunch with friends.

Many women feel the urge to have another child at this time in their lives. It is natural, don't freak out about it. If you really feel the need, but it is not an option, consider adopting or foster care. Mentoring or helping out at your local schools may help satisfy the feeling of being needed.

Go to your local shelter and adopt a pet. Being able to transfer your care giving efforts to a new furry member of your family will not only keep you active but your new companion may help keep the loneliness away.

Most of all, realize that what you are feeling is normal. As a mom or dad, you have been a caregiver for many years. You have held your children when they cried, celebrated each success with them and played cheerleader for them their entire lives. These are not emotions that one can turn off with ease.