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Coping with Empty Nest Syndrome

By User:cmelgarejo @timeAndDate(1280440134) Everyone with kids goes through it; your babies get older and head off to college, move out, or get married. You feel not as important as you once were and their absence from your home is causing you grief. You sit in their room and look at all of their thingsand it makes you feel even worse. Though many people may not realize it, Empty Nest Syndrome is a real and prevalent issue. Of course you should miss your child, but if you find yourself falling into depression after he or she leaves, this could be a significant issue. What can be done to cope with this problem, or how can you help someone else get through it?

Empty Nest Syndrome and Its Symptoms

Empty Nest Syndrome is the general term for the feelings of depression and anxiety that occur when children move out, and tends to be more common in women than men.  This doesn't mean a father cannot be affected, but usually by this time in a woman's life, she is also going through menopause and this can exacerbate the problem. It is totally normal to have some separation anxiety when a child leaves, but if one or more of the symptoms below are troubling you, your feelings could be developing into something more troublesome. * Crying excessively. * Feeling as if you have lost your usefulness. * Depression that keeps you from going to work. * Depression that keeps you from seeing friends. * Change in sleeping or eating patterns. * Disinterest in hobbies or other things you used to enjoy.

Coping Strategies

Don't feel defeated and overwhelmed. There is plenty you can do on your own to help. '''Pick Up a Hobby''' Was there ever something you wanted to do, but felt you didn't have time because you were taking care of your child? Now's the time to dive in, whether it's dance, or even going back to school yourself. It'll keep you busy, keep your mind off of the situation and, best of all, give you a feeling of accomplishment! '''Exercise''' Exercise is proven to release endorphins and increase your mood.  Here are some tips for getting active. '''Other Helpful Tips''' * '''Lean on Friends''': Friendships can be the most important thing at this point, especially if some in your circle are also dealing with their kids leaving. There's nothing better than human comfort. * '''Set Up Talk-Time''': Set a schedule for calling your child. You don't want to limit contact to the point where you become neurotic, so having a set time that you know you will always speak to them is a great idea. Once a week is a good interval. * '''Don't Rush Yourself''': No one wants to be depressed, but don't push yourself to get over it too soon. Take some time out to grieve and deal with the feelings. * '''Don't Make Big Decisions''': Don't make any big life-changing decisions like selling the house or moving until you know you are thinking more clearly. These emotions could cause you to make rash decisions.

Therapy Treatments

If you believe you are suffering from a debilitating case of Empty Nest Syndrome and may need more attention, seek professional help. This usually means the issue is larger than just the syndromeit could possibly be clinical depression or other health issues.

What Not To Do

There are many great choices for coping, but there are also plenty of bad ones that will do nothing but harm in the end.  Beware. ! * '''Do not overspend''': At first, indulging in a nice outfit you've always wanted is fine. But if you find yourself maxing out your credit cards in hopes that material things will make you feel better, you might want to take a step back before you find yourself in debt. * '''Do not eat your feelings''': Meaning, don't use food as an escape. You're better off going the opposite route of exercising, which is known to release chemicals to increase happiness. * '''Do not turn to alcohol''': Or any other drug for that matter. This behavior is self-destructive and will only mask your emotions, not solve the root problem. * '''Do not become a hermit''': It might seem like all you want to do is stay inside and lie in bed, but it's going to make you feel even worse. You need to keep being social: go out and try to enjoy yourself.

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