This is a collaborative post: There comes a time in every parent’s life when their children leave home and they’re left with an empty nest. This can have a detrimental impact on mental health because some people suffer real grief associated with feelings of unimportance. Although it’s easier said than done, the best way to combat the impacts of the empty nest syndrome is to fill your time and lean on your support network.
Avoid Being Overbearing
When your child leaves home, which will typically be between 23 and 25, you need to accept that they’re ready to face life independently. This doesn’t mean you can’t be there for your child, but you should avoid bombarding them with constant contact. If you simply let them know you’re available at any time, the chances are they’ll be in touch in no time.
Talk to Parents in the Same Boat
You won’t be the only parent suffering the impacts of empty nest syndrome. Reach out to your children’s friends’ parents for some much-needed support. You can arrange coffee mornings and express your frustrations. Alternatively, there are plenty of online forums dedicated to supporting parents.
Take Some Time Out
When you’ve got children to take care of, there’s often very little time to look after number one. In the weeks after your children leave, make a point to take a couple of weeks to unwind. If that means leaving a mountain of washing up in the utility, so be it. After all, your children have left home now and it’s a bad job if your partner can’t pick up the slack.
Spend Time with Your Partner
This point links well with taking time out. Over the years, you and your partner have likely been stuck in a rut that revolved around taking care of your children. Now is the time to break the mould and spend some quality time together. Book some time off and enjoy a relaxing couple’s holiday, which will bring your closer together. That being said, you may need to practice open communication if things have become too stale – have a discussion to find out what areas of your relationship need more work.
Consider Fostering
After taking some time to adjust to your new way of life, why not fill your empty home by taking care of vulnerable children? You’ve already got plenty of experience as a parent, and foster agencies are crying out for quality placement homes. You can visit thefca.co.uk to find out more about the role and how to apply. As well as having a positive impact on a child’s life, you’ll be financially supported to provide the best levels of care.
When your home is empty for the first time in a couple of decades, it can leave you feeling useless and depressed. To manage these feelings, it’s important to take time out for yourself and reconnect with your partner. Further, with your extra time, you can explore alternative careers including fostering.