Empty nest syndrome is a cluster of symptoms that can appear when the last child leaves the home. This may result in the parents or caregivers feeling an undercurrent of anxiety and lack of control as the familial structure begins to shift.
Empty Nest Syndrome
Empty nest syndrome impacts each parent or caregiver differently. While some individuals may experience many symptoms associated with empty nest syndrome, others may only experience one or two.
Empty Nest Syndrome Meaning
Having empty nest syndrome means you are experiencing a cluster of symptoms associated with no longer having your child in your home anymore, and you and your partner are adjusting to life as a dyad again. Experiencing symptoms of empty nest syndrome is a completely normal reaction to this major life transition.
What Are the Symptoms of Empty Nest Syndrome?
Empty nest syndrome is not a diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual V, however it is a Z-code that may used by health care professional as a primary diagnosis or a diagnosis specifier. In many cases, empty nest syndrome is indicated in addition to another primary diagnosis or cluster of symptoms that an individual may be experiencing, such as anxiety, depression, and trauma and stressor related disorders. Symptoms may include:
- Sense of loss
- Feeling sadness and emptiness
- Feeling a loss of purpose
- Worrying about your child and their whereabouts
- Identity shift (both as an individual and a couple)
Marital conflict, unhealthy coping strategies, and an increase in symptoms and/or intensity of another diagnosis may worsen during this time as you adjust to this new way of life. It's also important to note that compared to parents or caregivers that still had children in the home, those experiencing empty nest syndrome showed a significant increase in loneliness and depression, making those on the verge of becoming empty nesters especially vulnerable.
How Long Does Empty Nest Syndrome Last
Empty nest syndrome can last anywhere from weeks to years depending on the specific individual. Empty nest syndrome may accompany another mental health diagnosis, which can intensify this experience. If you find you are having trouble adapting to your new normal, be sure to reach out for support. This can be an incredibly difficult transition, and it's important that you prioritize your wellbeing.
How Do You Survive Empty Nest Syndrome?
Healthy ways to cope with empty nest syndrome include:
- Allow yourself to grieve the loss of what your life used to look like.
- Acknowledge this new life phase for you and your partner- while aspects of your children leaving home can be painful, scary, and/or anxiety provoking, there may be aspects of your new normal that you may find yourself enjoying once you've adjusted.
- Speak with your partner and/or close loved ones as a way to process your experience.
- Join a support group with other parents and caregivers who are experiencing empty nest syndrome.
- Speak with a therapist who can help you process this in a structured and safe setting.
- When you feel ready to do so, find meaningful ways to occupy your time.
- Begin creating a new schedule for yourself and try to stick to it- this can provide structure and comfort for some.
Empty Nest Syndrome Treatment
If you find that you are experiencing symptoms severe enough that you are having difficulty with acts of daily living, are having thoughts of harming yourself or others, and/or are noticing an increase in unhealthy coping habits, be sure to connect with a therapist right away. When searching for a therapist, look for someone who specializes in life transitions and empty nest syndrome.
What Do Empty Nesters Do?
Individuals who no longer have children in their household may occupy their time in a variety of ways. Some include:
- Taking up new hobbies
- Taking classes
- Traveling more often
- Spending more time with friends and/or family
- Adopting pets
- Volunteer work
- Beginning a new career path
Empty Nest Syndrome Single Parent
Experiencing empty nest syndrome when you are a single parent can add a layer of complexity to the situation.
Understanding Empty Nest Syndrome
If you are experiencing symptoms of empty nest syndrome, you are not alone. While difficult to go through, your response is perfectly normal to this major life transition. Remember to seek help if you feel your symptoms are prolonged, you are having difficulty with acts of daily living, and/or a previous mental health diagnosis is worsening.
