by Artisttia Yarns

Created on: August 25, 2009   Last Updated: August 26, 2009

When children leave their childhood homes to begin life on their own, whether it is for college, or a wedding, or perhaps some other reason, parents can experience a form of depression or grief called the Empty Nest Syndrome.

This syndrome appears to affect women more often than men. According to Psychology Today, this is because often this change in the household occurs at the same time women are dealing with other stressors, such as menopause or caring for their parents.

It is normal to feel sadness when children move out. Some parents will find that they want to spend time in the room of the absent child's bedroom as a way in which to feel closer to their child; this too is normal behavior as is the shedding of tears.

It is when there is the underlying belief that once the children have left the "nest" that your life or value as a person has ended, or you are crying and can't seem to stop, that it is an indication that it is time to seek the help of a therapist. Some other signs that professional help needed is that you are having trouble getting out of bed to go to work, or are no longer finding joy in being with your friends.

In addition to seeing a therapist, it is essential that your family health care provider is aware of your condition. Sometimes hormone therapy is needed if you are going through menopause, or an antidepressant may be in order.

Be gentle with yourself during this time. Here are some practical ways which may help you feel better. Spending time with your friends can help. Take walks; exercise increase hormones in the body that promote well-being.

You may find new activities to explore. Perhaps it is time to pull out hobbies that you didn't have time to pursue in the past. This can also be a time to pursue a new career path.

If possible, begin to prepare for the empty nest while your kids are still living at home. Socialize more, develop hobbies, and explore career and educational opportunities so that you are prepared when the kids leave the "nest".

Make the most of the time you have while everyone is still living in under one roof. Create opportunities to have family outings, prior to your child's heading off on their own. Take a vacation from work just to spend with the child that will be leaving home shortly (make sure the time you choose suits your child); let them know how important they are to you. This will be a good beginning to your future together, in a more peer to peer relationship.

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