Empty Nest Syndrome

Thushara Ninan

Abstract: Empty nest syndrome describes a collection of symptoms including loneliness, grief, and loss of purpose that some parents experience when their children need to step out their comfort zone (home) in order to pursue higher education, career or relationships, however, it is not commonly considered as a mental health condition. This article reviews the prevalence, etiology, general manifestations, stages and measures to ease the impact of empty nest syndrome. The positive impact of empty nest syndrome such as self - acceptance, positive relation with others, personal freedom, environmental mastery, a new purpose in life, continued personal growth, an emptiness can promote freedom and improved relationship.

Keywords: Empty nest syndrome, yoga, loneliness