When does a mother feel Empty Nest Syndrome?

Empty nest syndrome is a feeling of sadness, depression, loneliness and grief endured by the parents and caregivers after their kids leave their home to own a stage of taking care of themselves. Additionally, It is a psychological condition (not a clinical condition or illness) that may affect parents in particular especially the women.

What are the causes of Empty Nest Syndrome? Why do some mothers struggle with It?

  1. A perception of purposelessness that creeps when they feel the loss of responsibility in taking care of their son/daughter’s daily activity.
  2. The wriggles of resonating silence in the home due to immeasurable loss of joy and enthusiasm of their son/daughter. This might create a mood of uneasiness which may lead to ENS.  
  3. Invariably worrying about the safety and well-being of their children with the outside world might also lead to ENS.

Learn how to prepare for the adaptation and how to manage with empty nest syndrome.

How does Empty Nest Syndrome affect you?

Researchers have found that parents and caregivers who deal with ENS, experience an immense sense of loss which may trigger vulnerable types of behavioural symptoms as follows,

  • Feeling of sadness
  • Social isolation
  • Anxiety/ Stress
  • Loss of purposelessness
  • Sense of insecurity
  • Boredom
  • Endless worry/ Guilt
  • Depression

How to Deal with Empty Nest Syndrome:

  1. Stay busy: In order to overcome ENS, it is essential to redirect the attention towards the subjects that might make you feel engaged. Create some hobbies, perform activities, meet up with old friends or relatives. Involve in the physical activities like outdoor games, yoga, meditation or jog. Optionally, consider learning courses which allow you to go farther.
  2. Keep in touch with the children: The big benefit we have in this today’s world is the scientific advancement. Make a regular contact through text, calls (there are more apps available to make video calls too), emails and frequent visits. If these actions exceed, the mother might become too clingy (emotionally dependent). Ensure to hold healthy guidelines within the limit that won’t take the freedom and independence of the child. Hence, schedule a time frame that allows both to maintain a close relationship.
  3. Revive the flavour of romance: The old wine always tastes better! Although the struggle with grief and loneliness is a big challenge, it also opens the door of opportunity to reckon the romantic relationship. It is the perfect time to start your second innings and enjoy spending time with your loved one.
  4. Plan a vacation or trip: One of the difficulties that empty nester endures is their own home, after the departure of the children. Plan a vacation or a trip that can make you feel better. A change of environment, allowing yourself to explore a new place, could be a refreshing experience.
  5. Stay positive: Change from one phase to another is a difficult task. Reviving old memories and spending a lot of time thinking about it, might lead to stress and depression. Improve the mood willingly by accepting the condition and remain positive. Make a journal and write down how you feel. Or write about what you are thankful for? This exercise will make her feel more positive and change the attention towards emotional well being.