Empty Nest

An “empty/changing nest” is one of the biggest transitions in life we will go through and high on the list of stressors.  You may be feeling sad, lonely and having a sense of loss of purpose.  If you are having difficulty transitioning from being a “hands on parent” you are not alone!  While some parents can’t wait to change the locks, many feel a strong loss of their parenting role. From the minute we become mother’s, the role encompasses everything and all that we are.  Although tiring, we embrace this incredible journey with more love then we ever imagined was possible.  From late night feedings, to first smiles and steps, we glowed with happiness even through lack of sleep.  Then came loud and crazy sleep overs, bad grades, yelling fights, and high school graduation.  Through most of this, (well almost) we were proud of our children and who they had become.  Yet, our children are now young adults and things have changed.  Not only can we not see their medical records or talk to their teachers, they no longer are coming into our homes and us falling asleep knowing they are safe and sound.

Even if you still have children in your home, your “nest” is certainly changing.  The siblings in the home are dealing with a change in family dynamics and their roles.  You may not be your child’s confidant anymore as they seek out advice from friends. Everything may seem like it is changing. Your relationship with your partner may have revolved around your child/ren and you find you have little in common when you are discussing anything but the kids.  You may have been a stay-at-home mom, or worked in a job that you did not find particularly fulfilling, or wanted to return to school but didn’t have the time.

Although you knew this day would come, the “Empty/Changing Nest” is indeed a life transition and one that may be a bit more difficult to navigate than you thought – but I can help you.  There may be tears as realistically there has been a loss, but together we will  strengthen your other roles and begin to work on building this new chapter in your life – embrace it!