The Implications of Empty Nest Syndrome for Parents and Children

As children, and particularly the last child, decide to leave home and develop their own sense of independence, changes in the family occur.  Parents, especially mothers, can develop feelings of loneliness and a decrease in self-worth.  Children become busy and involved with their own lives, having less time to think about and stay in communication with their parents.

While parents and children that have developed healthy relationships find separation difficult, there are a number of steps that can be taken to prepare for this time.  Mothers and fathers should plan ways to stay in touch regularly with their children.  Plan visits to be with your children and e-mail them often.  Children will be happier knowing that mom and dad have developed new relationships or joined organizations to devote their time toward.  

The empty nest syndrome can be a difficult hurdle to jump over for both husbands and wives.  If loneliness leads to feelings of uselessness, it is time to seek the help of medical professionals.  Medication, together with counseling, can be helpful to put things in their proper perspective.  If relationships between parents and children were strained before separation, these wounds do not heal easily.  Children may return home because of economic or marital problems.  In these instances, extended family members and close friends can be very helpful.  Keep in touch with people who offer healthy suggestions.

As society changes and families are separated by careers and relocation, it becomes more important to understand the empty nest syndrome.  Planning ahead of this event within families will ease the transition and develop alternatives that both parents and children will use to help one another when the time comes to act.