6 Ways You Can Deal With Depression When A Child Leaves Home
The departure of a child from the family home is a major transition, one that can trigger feelings of loss, grief, and even depression in parents. Empty nest syndrome refers to feelings of sadness, grief, or loss experienced by parents when their children leave home. As children become independent, it is inevitable and healthy for them to move out and start their own lives. However, this transition can be difficult for parents who have spent years caring for their children. So, how do you cope?
There are several coping strategies that can help you work through empty nest syndrome:
Make new plans for your life
Now that you have more free time plan an exciting trip to look forward to. Even short trips to places you’ve never visited before can boost your mood and motivation. Exploring new destinations will give you a sense of adventure and accomplishment. Learn a new skill or hobby to occupy your time meaningfully. Enrolling in a class or joining a local club are excellent ways to stay socially engaged and mentally stimulated. Pursuing new interests will give you a renewed sense of purpose and help establish a new routine.
Ask them if you can visit once in a while
Consider asking them if you can visit on occasion. Scheduling regular visits with your child can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. Visiting gives you an opportunity to maintain your connection and to continue to feel like an active presence in their life. Seeing your child thriving in their new environment can also provide reassurance that they are adjusting well to this transition in life.
Send them their favorite treats from home.
You can also send your child their favorite snacks or treats from home. Care packages with homemade goodies or store-bought comfort foods from their childhood can help combat feelings of homesickness and reassure them of your ongoing love and support. However, it is important not to overdo it, as constantly sending food packages may give the impression you do not believe they can care for themselves independently.
Focus on the positive.
Focusing on the positive aspects of your child leaving home can help combat feelings of depression. With less mess and responsibility, you'll find yourself with more time to read, exercise, reconnect with friends, learn to cook, garden, or whatever else sparks your interest.
Make plans to meet up with other parents in similar situations, join a local club, or volunteer. Staying connected to others provides support and encouragement. While feeling sad is normal, try not to dwell on it. Talk to others about the positive side of your child gaining independence and focus on your own interests and relationships.
Volunteer
Consider volunteering your time for a good cause. Charitable organizations always need help, whether assisting with daily operations or organizing fundraising events. Volunteering provides mental stimulation, social interaction, and a sense of purpose that can help combat feelings of loneliness or loss of identity that often come when children leave the nest. While the desire to isolate yourself may arise, force yourself to stay engaged with the outside world.
Stay in touch
Keeping in regular contact with your child is also important. Schedule weekly video calls to chat face-to-face. Video chatting allows you to see your child's facial expressions and body language, providing a deeper level of connection than a phone call alone. Ask about their daily life, new experiences, and social interactions to stay up to date and feel involved in this new chapter of their life. Let your child know you're there for them anytime they want to talk. Regular communication and emotional support can help ease the difficulty of this transition for you both.
How to help your child when they are worried about leaving home
As a caring parent, there are several ways you can reassure your child when they express anxiety about leaving for college or moving out.
Ask them about their specific worries and concerns to alleviate anxiety and allow you to provide targeted support.
Reassure them that their feelings are normal and that they can call you anytime they feel distressed.
Let them know that campus resources like counselors are also available if needed.
Also, remind them that most new students experience similar worries and that they will adjust over time as they settle into a routine and make new friends.
Creating a care package of some of their favorite snacks, photos of friends, and a handwritten note can help them feel comforted in their new space.
Dealing with depression as your children leave home is challenging but surmountable. If you’re still struggling, reach out to book our life transitions counseling services today, and we will help you.
