YOUR CHILD IS LEAVING HOME – Now What?

TIPS TO HELP YOU FEEL FULFILLED ONCE AGAIN

If your child is leaving home for the first time, you are probably experiencing the thoughts and feelings associated with empty nest syndrome. It can be tricky to handle a quiet home while also enabling your child to enjoy their newly acquired independence.

Worry and sadness are common. So you need not be alarmed by the way you feel. You’re processing big changes and are feeling the impact. There are a few ways to deal with empty nest syndrome symptoms, to continue your normal life and even discover exciting new opportunities.

ASK FOR SUPPORT IF YOU NEED IT 

One of the most common mistakes people make when dealing with an empty house is attempting to traverse the new situation alone. Instead of trying to “be strong” and put on a brave front, ask for the support of family and friends. Let the comfort you. Take in any advice they offer and see if it fits. If not, let it go. Being transparent about your feelings will undoubtedly open new doors of understanding with those who have been where you are now.

Seek out those others whose child is leaving home. Sharing the experience will bring you both comfort and provide the opportunity to experience new ways of managing the change. If you find you are turning to substances to get through, it might be time to seek support from American Addiction Centers.

STAY BUSY

When a child is leaving home and you are not used to living without them, keep busy, especially while you are adjusting. Recurrent the hobbies you set aside during your busy child rearing years and engage in activities that you enjoy. Meet up with friends frequently to socialize, and make an effort to exercise. Walking, jogging, and/or yoga will give you a biological boost as they boost the feel good chemicals in your body.

It is also critical to begin creating your own life rather than becoming overly involved in your kid’s lives. Learn a new hobby, such as photography. Take a class, or volunteer. Think of this time as your time to create a life you love. It’s not just an ending. It’s also a beginning.

SET BOUNDARIES

 Empty nesters may find it difficult to avoid contacting their children on a daily basis via phone calls and text messages. This can cause parents to become overly pushy, limiting their children’s freedom and independence as they learn to be on their own for the first time. It also create the reverse situation, where your child leans too much on you and not enough on themselves. Set a regular time to contact them, say Wednesday and Sunday evenings when you know they are most likely to be available. It also provides them with a sense of security and structure.

SET NEW GOALS

Setting goals or taking steps toward a dream will give you a focus and a purpose. Begin brainstorming all the things you once wanted to do but set aside to raise your children. Have you always wanted to complete your college degree? Write a book? Run a marathon? Now is the time. Achieving new goals and taking on new hobbies will also make you a more interesting Mom!

GO ON VACATION

A child leaving home can make a home once filled with energy suddenly feel painfully quiet. If it is becoming overwhelming, consider planning a trip to give you a break during the adjustment period.  You’ll enjoy planning an itinerary, trying new activities, and relaxing in a breathtaking setting that allows you to unwind and think through your future.

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