Being a parent is one of life’s greatest joys. Years are spent comforting, nurturing and guiding our children to become the best version of themselves. Eventually, a day comes when your child is ready to leave home, and branch out into the world. After spending and dedicating so much time to our kids, when they are ready to start their own path it can lead to a profound sense of change. Often, this transition is called empty nest syndrome. Empty nest syndrome can leave you feeling lost, anxious and even sad. Here at Wholesome, we have many empathetic, compassionate, caring and empathetic therapists here to help. They are extensively trained in many different modalities, to ensure you are provided with the utmost, in depth care.

What is Empty Nest Syndrome?

Empty nest syndrome is feelings of grief, loss, anxiousness, sadness and other feelings that come along with the major life transition that is your children leaving the home.  Although empty nest syndrome is not a mental health diagnosis, it does not mean it is not real and does not affect parents. Empty nest syndrome can affect both mothers and fathers, as well as other caregivers and guardians like grandparents or aunts and uncles.

Empty nest syndrome is more than just your children leaving home. It can disrupt regular routines, and the sense of attachment and normality that is attached to parenting and having your children in your home. Here are a few main feelings that may occur when experiencing empty nest syndrome:

• Anxiousness
• Worry
• Sadness
• Feeling lost
• Feelings of rejection

These feelings can make the transition and your ability to adjust to the transition more challenging.  If you have noticed a change within yourself with daily routines and functioning, and you feel like you may be experiencing empty nest syndrome, speaking with an experienced therapist can be beneficial in helping you navigate this change in a healthy way.

How can therapy help?

There are many evidence based modalities used in therapy that can help you cope with empty nest syndrome. Therapy can allow you to look deeper into your thoughts, feelings, emotions and beliefs to understand how they can affect your behaviors. Therapy can further support you in creating healthy routines, reconnecting with personal interests, and developing new goals or roles that bring meaning and fulfillment to this next stage of life.

In addition, therapy can also be beneficial in helping strengthen relationships as your family dynamic shifts. Your perspective can change from a chapter ending to a new chapter beginning, and the opportunity to explore and grow within yourself is now present.You can explore ways to connect with your children while they are not in the home, as well as your spouse or other family members that still remain in the home. You will learn ways to expand your support system, build resilience and confidence, and find a sense of renewed purpose.

Our therapists here at Wholesome take pride in our collaborative and comforting approach to therapy. They understand the complex emotions, thoughts, and feelings that can come along with empty nest syndrome. Your therapist will walk alongside you, working with you in a way that meets your wants and needs, to reach your goals. We are here for you every step of the way.

Why Choose Wholesome Psychology?

There are many benefits to starting your journey to wellness at Wholesome Psychology! For starter’s, we offer your first session at 50% off so that you can ensure the therapist you meet with is a good fit for you before moving forward at the full rate.

We tailor your therapy to you. You are unique, and your journey in therapy should match your wants, needs, and goals. We take pride in using your strengths and preferences with evidence based modalities to ensure you get the most out of your sessions with us.

We have a wide range of therapists to choose from, and have locations throughout Edmonton and in St. Albert, in addition to offering virtual or phone sessions. This allows us to be here for you when you need it most.

Ready to Start? Reach Out Today!

If you feel you may be experiencing empty nest syndrome, now is the time to reach out. Counselling can make a meaningful difference, and help you be able to overcome empty nest syndrome. Contact us today to take the first step. We are here to help you reach your goals and support you on your journey to mental wellness.

Book a session with our team today.

References: Department of Health & Human Services. (2001, September 27). Empty nest syndrome. Better Health Channel. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/empty-nest-syndrome
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2024, July 8). Empty nest syndrome - learning to spread your wings after your children leave home. Mayo Clinic. https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/healthy-aging/empty-nest-syndrome-learning-to-spread-your-wings-after-your-children-leave-home/