Back to school can not only be stressful for students, but also parents!
And if your child is leaving home for college or to start a job, there can be feelings of sadness, loss and even depression.
Dr. Susan Albers, a clinical psychologist with Cleveland Clinic, explained some healthy ways to cope with empty nest syndrome.
“It can trigger a wide range of emotions, everything from pride and joy to loneliness and grief,” Albers said.
Albers said that when children go off to college or to a job, it’s not the end of your parenting story but the beginning of a new chapter. Instead of thinking of the nest as empty, consider that it’s expanding.
“Your love, care, guidance goes beyond the four walls of your home to their new location. They still need your everyday presence,” Albers said.
Albers said to continue staying involved in your child’s life without hovering.
If your student’s heading off to college, follow the school’s social media page or read about campus events in the newsletter.
“This is going to help you to ask thoughtful questions and stay connected to understanding what’s happening in their everyday life,” Albers said.
To cope with sad feelings, Albers said to allow yourself to name what you feel. Noticing your emotions can help you process them.
And create a connection ritual -- a time each day when you can talk to your child or exchange text messages maybe in between classes or before bed.
She said to also focus on gains not gaps. You might now have time for a hobby, to learn something new or to volunteer.
It’s also a good time to reconnect with a partner or friends or do some traveling.
“Remember that it is not just about filling your time, but finding things that give you a sense of purpose, not just being busy, but feeling really fulfilled,” Albers advised.
Albers said setting a new routine for yourself is also helpful, as the security of knowing what to expect can help steady your emotions.
She also suggests giving your home a fresh start by maybe rearranging a room, planting new flowers or creating a space for a hobby.
She said this signals to your brain that life is moving forward in a positive way.