Empty Nests Support Group

Empty nest syndrome is a general feeling of depression and loneliness that parents/other guardian relatives feel when one or more of their children leave home. Empty nest syndrome has become more prevalent in modern times, as the extended family is becoming less common than in past generations, and the elderly are left living by themselves.

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Youngest child moving out

Fehrenbach16
Fehrenbach16
Well, I thought this day would never come. My oldest son left home six years ago after college & it didn't bother me that much, probably because I still had another son at home. Well,Son two has finished college and is gainfully employed. Now he and a friend are going to move into an apartment in the next few months. This is really hitting me hard. Like I sad, I never thought this day would come, & now that it's almost here, I don't want him to leave, but he must move on. There are days I can't stop crying. He has been more of a buddy to me also. How can I fill this void?

Another Empty Bedroom
deleted_user
deleted_user
Awwww!!! Embrace this moment hun! You have done a job well done on raising these children and now they have done what they are suppose to do...grow up and move into their own world! Believe me...MOM is going to always be there..your children will always be your children no matter their age. I understand that you feel a void, but now is the time you get to spread your own wings and fly! Maybe take up a new hobby, or do some charity or volunteer work. It's your opportunity to Re-Purpose and Re-Make your life!!! .I survived the Empty Nest and you can too! You WILL survive!
deleted_user
deleted_user
I am about to be in that same boat.. two sons have been out of the house for awhile now (oldest for 5 years, but still in the same town.. middle son for almost 3 years but lives in NY and I am in AR).. my youngest, my daughter, is about to move to Washington DC to be with her Marine boyfriend. I am so excited FOR her.. what an exciting life she will begin.. but I am terrified. Scared of the loneliness, sad that I won't get that little text each day telling me she's on her way home from work, worried that I honestly will flip my lid (I just lost my Dad to cancer on 12-28 and I'm still reeling from that).... ugh I know, it's a horrible feeling of just emptiness that will be there. I do try and stay positive, try to be excited for myself and all the things that will open up for me now. It will be an adjustment to say the least. I guess all anyone can do is try very hard to move through it, feel each emotion and let it be what it's supposed to be, take each day as it comes and begin a new life as "Mom with grown and gone kids"... best of luck and ((hugs))!
Fehrenbach16
Fehrenbach16
Kim & belladonna3k,

Thanks for the words of encouragement. I know look at this experience in a different light. Belladonna, I am so sorry for your loss & hope that your transition goes smoothly.