Empty nest syndrome is not a clinical entity, rather it is a transitional phenomenon experienced by the parents when the youngest or the last child leaves home. Parents want their children to be independent, or to get a good education. But the separation is difficult sometimes. The phenomenon is more common in women as they are the primary carers in many cases.
If the grief, sadness, crying episodes, or depressive episodes last more than 2 weeks or any suicidal thoughts warrants help from the professionals.
Only up-gradation of one’s identity to an adult child is needed. Therapy with a therapist is needed if daily routine activities are impacted by sadness and loneliness.
With the Boomerang generation on the rise in western culture and some developed nations, the empty nesters are expected to decrease in the upcoming days.
Reference - Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of mental disorders, fifth edition, National Institute of Health, US
Dr Manicka Saravanan S
Consultant Geriatric Medicine
Kauvery Hospital, Chennai
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