Readers Respond: How Do You Deal with Empty Nest Blues?

Responses: 5

Children off to college? Leaving the nest? How did you cope with the empty nest blues? Share your best tips here... Share Your Best Tips

My nest if 4 children emptied when I was 44. The best thing that happened was that I could write and write novels, my lifetime dream. The worst thing is that I still miss them terribly. It often consumes me. They all live far away. We talk often but I am jealous of friends and siblings who have kids at home. People say, "at least your kids all have jobs etc." that only brings some comfort. Everyone has an, "at least you have (fill in the blank). I know that my life is too wrapped up in them, especially my daughter, I just made a call for counseling. I just realized this, that I need to let go.
—Guest Dianne

My daughter & best friend is leaving for college in 6 weeks. I want to hold on to her & tell her don't go...but everyone tell me I can't. They also tell me I need to find something new & exciting things to do. I don't even know what that might be...I know I need help to get through this but I can't even get started..
—Guest Kathey

Hey I'm a mother too. We just need to get over it. Go to the local college and see what kind of classes are available for adults, start a new hobby. It's fun then becomes part of your normal life.
—Guest Jess

When my daughter left for the East Coast I threw myself into work but with balance. I started a new profession teaching at night and connecting with college students her age. Somehow working with students that were my daughter's age, gave me some connection to be still nurturing but still seeing how other children coped in college. I also got in touch with God more spiritually by joining a bible study which helped me to connect more with others and God. I have been so busy but I still miss her. I thought I was going to get so depressed I bought myself this expensive program to deal with depression to get ready for the onslaught and it never happened!!! I wish the best for you. Take care!
—Guest catjama

I'm 50 and I have 3 daughters ages 16,18,and 22. Being divorced, I spent tons of time raising them. My oldest has been in and out of college, but currently home. My empty nest syndrome is more missing the days when they were small and really needed me, and all the amazing fun we had. It's very depressing and I don't know how to get over it,but I'm trying to get busier with my own life,but I don't really know how.
—crhetrick

Jackie Burrell
Young Adults Guide