How to avoid Empty Nest Syndrom

Aug 31

YOU CAN’T AVOID AN EMPTY NEST, BUT YOU CAN AVOID EMPTY NEST SYNDROME

Here’s the problem: parents are so focused on preparing their kids for life after high school (and surviving tween and teen years!), they’re often blindsided by an empty house.

Empty nest is a motherhood milestone that is largely ignored by our society. This lack of information leaves us exposed to the possibility of Empty Nest Syndrome — feeling of deep sadness, depression, loss of purpose, worry, and anxiety over our child’s well-being.

“Empty nest syndrome can afflict both parents, but mothers seem to be most susceptible. Many mothers may have dedicated 20 years or more of their lives to bringing up their children, and see motherhood as their primary role.” —Better Health

Here’s the scoop: if you still have kids living at home, even if they’re in high school, there are a few things you can do now to get ready for the day they move out.

Ignoring what’s next increases your odds of suffering empty nest syndrome.

Feel as though you’ve lost your purpose.
Increased depression.
Extreme fear/worry for your newly independent children
Spouse/partner relationship issues.
Feeling extremely emotional (sad, angry, scared, etc)

As a mom of two teenagers, my empty nest is roughly 5 years away. Rather than sit on the sidelines waiting for the green light, I took matters into my own hands as soon as my youngest hit middle school.

Empty nest is a milestone.
I want you to move through it—not get caught up in it.

What can you do to ease the sense of loss later?

Make a plan now.

Find things outside of motherhood
Structure your day
Reconnect with friends
Strengthen the relationship with your partner

Give as much attention to the milestone of your kids moving out as you did to them moving in.

Both you and your child should be working on being independent, so when the time comes for them to head off to college or move out of the house, you’ll have an easier time adjusting to your new life.