Coping with 'empty nest syndrome': 5 ways to ease the transition.

The departure of teens to college and the departure of young adults from their childhood homes can cause parents and guardians to feel sad, grieving, and worried, which are typical symptoms of empty nest syndrome.

According to Rachel Glik, a licensed professional counselor, empty nest syndrome is a natural and organic emotion experienced by many people, particularly parents, when their last child leaves home.

Glik states that the syndrome, although not a formal diagnosis, can last for an extended period of time.

Some signs that you may be experiencing empty nest syndrome are:

• Feelings of sadness, loneliness, depression or anxiety
• Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
• Feeling like you've lost your identity or sense of purpose
• Becoming preoccupied with your child who left the home
• Feelings of hopelessness about your future

Here are some suggestions from Glik for caregivers experiencing empty nest syndrome.

5 ways to cope with empty nest syndrome

To ensure success as an empty nester, it's crucial to plan ahead, advises Glik. The sooner you prepare for your child's eventual departure, the better off you'll be.

Glik advises preparing oneself by ensuring good self-care, maintaining relationships, and engaging in other activities to facilitate a smoother transition.

According to Glik, there are other ways to deal with empty nest syndrome, in addition to what was previously mentioned.

• Glik says that leaving home with your child is not the end of the relationship, but rather a continuation of it.
• If you're a nurturer, consider becoming a mentor to other young adults or volunteering with children. You can also take the metaphorical approach and discover a new passion project.
• Cherish the experience of being a parent and let it fill some of the emptiness you may be feeling, advises Glik.
• Cultivate other relationships in your life. If you have a partner, prioritize spending quality time together and exploring new experiences that you may have missed out on. Additionally, make an effort to schedule regular hangouts with friends.
• Embrace the new chapter and discover what brings you joy as an individual.

It is crucial to seek assistance from a trained professional if you experience a loss of interest in other things in your life, lack of hopefulness or excitement about your future or the next chapter, according to Glik.

Look at the bright side of having an 'empty nest'

An empty nest can be a positive change, opening up new opportunities and experiences for you.

Kari Cardinale, Modern Elder Academy's partner and chief content officer, will lead one of the first programs designed for parents and guardians of college students on how to cope with empty nesting at Arizona State University.

The empty nest stage is a crucial time to concentrate on personal interests, such as traveling, meeting new people, arts, or fitness, as you now have more freedom to pursue them, according to Cardinale.

"Building new adult friendships is crucial, as it is important to engage in activities with others and nurture these relationships for many years to come," she emphasizes.

Cardinale recommends trying new activities such as traveling to unfamiliar places, rock-climbing, or learning a new language.

According to Glik, the easier the transition is, the more fulfilled you are personally.

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