June, the sixth month of the year, where did those first six months of the year go, they seem to have flown by. Time is really going far to quickly later, I hope that is not a sign of old age !! They do say the time goes quicker as you age, I personally think it is when you have children, you turn around and they are adults, they have flown the nest, and some are left trying to cope with the “empty nest syndrome” 

This is a time when parents can be overcome with depression, grief a form of sadness when their beloved children leave home. Women tend to be more affected than men, this does not mean that men are not affected, they can suffer from this sadness also.

As more women work today, this syndrome can be less painful, the emptiness is not the same, and also children are leaving home at a later age, and for many reasons, children also return home more now than in previous years. 

So how do you spot this syndrome and if you are suffering, to feel sad is normal at this time, you always have to allow for a period of time to adapt, you may find yourself in their bedroom more, or you zoom in on something of theirs to feel closer to them.

If you feel you may suffer from this syndrome make a note of your reactions and how long they last, if you feel useless, or cry more than normal or withdraw from your normal social activities, you should maybe seek some professional advice.

You also have to take into consideration that many women may be going through menopause also around this time, or trying to cope with elderly parents. The relationship parent/child will have great consequences for both parties, the closer they are, may actually help in some ways, as long as they keep their communication going, they are deeply missed, but with communication a healthy relationship can remain.

When a child/ren leave a home an overwhelming sadness can take hold, try at all times to discuss your feelings with friends for support and always  be kind to yourself. The time and energy you directed to your child/ren, can now go towards activities for yourself, return to hobbies, leisure activities or  a new career, this is your time now, there is no guilt attached to this time, you are always there for your children but your time now belongs to you again. Take this as an opportunity and enjoy your new-found life. 

Remember…………..As one door closes, another door opens….!