As children leave home in search of work or educational opportunities, more and more people are suffering from empty nest syndrome. When they are away, they feel lonely and unsure of how to get through the day. To understand more about this syndrome and how it affects children, the author, a child psychologist and parenting counselor, shares some ways to deal with empty nest syndrome.
Many people are suffering Empty nest syndromeFor the uninitiated, this is a phrase coined to describe the feelings of loneliness and anxiety that parents may have when their children leave home to pursue employment and an independent life. The kids Many struggle with the desire to pursue their dreams and achieve them, and the intense emotions of watching their children leave home. parents I experience this syndrome.
Child psychologist and parenting counsellor Ridhi Doshi Patel says it is natural for parents to feel sad and lonely after their children leave home. Many parents are unable to understand their children's feelings and therefore do not address the underlying issues. Talking about common signs of empty nest syndrome, Ridhi says: “Parents who feel depressed seeing an empty house, parents who have no time or activities to spend with, parents who get teary-eyed and emotional thinking about their children, parents who feel anxious about their children's safety and wellbeing – these are common signs that parents are experiencing empty nest syndrome.”
Liddi says parents often come to her expressing how lonely they miss their children after they leave home to study or pursue their dreams. “Many parents' lives revolve around their children, so they feel a void when they leave home. Some parents feel truly lost, not knowing who to cook for or feeling like they have no one to talk to,” she says.
All parents develop a sense of belonging with their children. But some parents suffer from empty nest syndrome“It's parents who are very involved in their children's lives, stay-at-home parents, child-centered parents, single moms — those are the types of parents who are most affected when their children leave home,” she says.
It's hard for parents to see their children go away for long periods of time, but when kids see the emotional reactions they experience when they see their parents go away, it can ultimately affect them too. “It's not just the parents who are distressed – children will experience a range of emotions too. From feelings of guilt about leaving their parents behind to a certain pressure to stay in contact with them, all of which can have a negative impact on their mental health,” she says.
Liddi says it's important for parents struggling with empty nest syndrome to take control of their lives and do the things that bring them happiness and joy. Below are some recommendations to help parents feel fulfilled and happier in life:
Parents can always start their children on activities and hobbies that can add new dimensions to their personality. Try gardening, join a book club, experiment in the kitchen – all these things can help your child spend their time in a healthier way.
Spend more time bonding with your partner
You can also expect to spend quality time with your spouse or partner, and you can always return to the activities you previously enjoyed, which will improve your quality of life.
Stay in touch with your children
Parents can stay in touch with their kids through video calls and surprise visits, which also gives parents a sense of belonging and helps them stay connected with their kids.
Volunteer
Parents can always volunteer for community service or other activities to stay involved in a productive way.
