How to Deal With Empty Nest Syndrome as a Single Parent

Eventually your children will grow up and leave home, but that doesn't have to be a source of depression or even sadness. You can celebrate the day your nest empties by embracing life, even if it means you're temporarily on your own.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Seek support from others. Contact other family members who have dealt with empty nest syndrome, an online support group or a psychologist to build your network.
2. Rediscover your passion. Often parents give up some interests to be available to their children. Throw yourself into those hobbies and activities again.
3. Volunteer your parenting experience. Schools and community groups would be happy to connect you with children who need you. Perhaps you can even act as a substitute teacher or teacher's aide.
4. Communicate with your children regularly. Give them their freedom, but call them once a week just to chat. Keep the conversations light. Don't make them feel like you're checking up on them, but be ready to support them if they ask for help.
5. Take care of yourself. Adopt an exercise routine to stay physically healthy. Poor physical health can aggravate feelings of sadness caused by empty nest syndrome.
6. Be patient with yourself once your children leave. Allow yourself time to grieve over the end of a chapter in your life. Some parents may need up to two years to transition into this new phase of being home without children.
7. Start dating. If your social life was limited while the kids were home, now is the time to explore a romantic relationship.

Tips & Warnings

• Although you may be missing your children, don't encourage them to move back in the first time they run into problems. They need time to transition and become independent.
• If you experience symptoms of depression and feel overwhelmed, seek medical help.