Do you have a child leaving for college? Are your kids heading to overnight camp this summer? When the kids leave, some parents welcome the freedom from parenting responsibilities and a chance to enjoy ‘me time.’ Others dread the empty nest, and feel at loose ends.
Here are 5 tips for coping with empty nest syndrome:
- Give yourself permission to grieve. It’s normal to miss and to worry about the people in whom you’ve invested so much love and commitment. Talking with friends who are at the same stage or have been there can provide support, reassurance, and adult companionship.
- But don’t wallow. Take advantage of this time to do the things you swore you’d get to once you were less busy. Sign up for that class or try that hobby you’ve been meaning to explore.
- If you are in a relationship, connect with your partner in ways that are not organized around discussing the kids. Take advantage of the free concerts and festivals in abundance during the summer months. Explore local places you’ve avoided because the children weren’t interested. Find common interests that will serve as a foundation as you transition into the next phase of life.
- If you are not in a relationship, could you benefit from a stronger social support system? As we are raising our families, friendships often develop organically through contact with other parents. Now you may have to be more creative in order to meet new people. Meetup groups, your religious community, gym classes, hobby and interest groups, and volunteering are potential sources for connecting with like-minded people. There are even apps for people seeking same-sex friendships.
- Take pride in your parenting accomplishments! One of the best things we can do for our children is to raise them to be secure enough to leave home. If you have provided this sense of safety, they won’t hesitate to reach out when they need the guidance of a parent.