8 symptoms of empty nest syndrome and tips for dealing with it

Anyone who has children knows that when the time comes for them to leave the house, no matter how natural this movement is, there are several feelings. One of the things that can happen is the empty nest syndrome, which appears when the sadness of the child’s departure is not well processed by the parents. Next, check out the explanation by psychologist Karyne Santiago (CRP 06/161451) on the subject and learn tips to deal with it.

What is empty nest syndrome?

According to Karyne, “empty nest syndrome is characterized by a picture of deep sadness affected by the absence of children, usually when they leave home in adulthood. The condition can progress to depression if left untreated.”

Although it occurs in both men and women, it is more common in women, especially in cultures where the mother is dedicated only to the house and children. This ends up corroborating the intensification of the feeling of emptiness left when this child is no longer present.

The psychologist explained that, in addition to the social deconstruction of the demands related to the role of the mother, the woman must maintain her identity and individuality in motherhood, in an attempt to dilute the feeling of loss, melancholy, emptiness and sadness, which arise when the children mature and move away from their parents.

Symptoms of Empty Nest Syndrome

To understand if you may be experiencing this, it is necessary to know the symptoms of this syndrome. Here are the main ones, according to Karyne:

• Feeling of discouragement that makes the person not see sense in performing routine everyday things, such as cooking, tidying the house;
• Deep sadness;
• Feelings of loneliness, abandonment and helplessness;
• Decreased libido;
• Changes in appetite (too little or too much appetite);
• Insomnia;
• Anxiety attacks (in some cases);
• Difficulty concentrating.

The professional also added that “the symptoms of empty nest syndrome, in some ways, resemble the symptoms of depressive disorder, which can cause confusion at the time of a self-analysis. However, it is important to think that, in the case of this syndrome, the symptoms appear because of the absence of children”.

What to do

In addition to knowing about empty nest syndrome and understanding what the symptoms are, it is very important to understand how to better deal with it and know when it is time to ask for help. Below, psychologist Karyne explained some tips:

Reconnect with your partner

It is common for there to be a certain distance between the couple both during the care of the children and after their departure. However, a rapprochement between both is extremely important, rediscovering life together, partnership and love. “This ends up mitigating the feeling of emptiness and abandonment, given that the person feels welcomed by their spouse”, said Karyne.

Rediscover yourself as a woman

After long years of being a mother, your view of yourself may be distorted and even a little lost. A rediscovery of your potentials, desires, dreams and desires is interesting. Open your eyes to her individuality.

do things you like

Try to occupy your time with things that please you. Go for a walk or invite your friends to a movie. Alone or with a partner, practice the hobbies that interest you. Housework decreases after a child leaves, so use the spare time to do something for yourself.

Keep in touch even if virtual

Always remember that distance does not preclude the love and affection of the relationship between you and your children. Karyne explained that “they may be far away now, but they are still your children and, when possible, you will meet again. In addition, nothing prevents you from keeping in touch by phone, messages, video calls, etc.”

Seek professional help

Often, even understanding everything that is going on, it is not possible to deal with empty nest syndrome alone. “You don’t have to go through this alone! A psychologist can help you find the way to dilute negative feelings, make you rediscover yourself as a person and better understand this new phase of life”, added the professional.

Seeing children leaving home is not easy, but it is necessary for their happiness and evolution. Did you like this content? So, enjoy and also read tips to develop emotional maturity.