Empty nest syndrome

Empty nest syndrome is a psychological condition that can occur when a person's children leave home for the first time, such as to live on their own or to attend a college or university. It is not a clinical disorder or disease, but it can manifest as a feeling of loss and emptiness that may have been suppressed during the time of rearing the children.

Symptoms

The symptoms of empty nest syndrome can vary from person to person, but may include feelings of sadness, loss, or loneliness, a loss of purpose or identity, or a feeling of being unwanted or unneeded. These feelings can be exacerbated if the person is single or does not have a close relationship with their spouse or partner.

Causes

Empty nest syndrome is caused by a significant change in a person's life. This change can be triggered by a variety of factors, such as the departure of a child from the home, a change in the person's role or identity, or a change in the person's relationship with their spouse or partner.

Treatment

Treatment for empty nest syndrome can involve psychotherapy, counseling, or support groups. These treatments can help a person to understand and cope with their feelings of loss and emptiness, and to find new ways to fill their time and find purpose in their life.

See also

• Psychology
• Psychotherapy
• Counseling
• Support group

References

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External links

• Mayo Clinic - Empty Nest Syndrome

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