In 2009, I wrote a column with the headline, “Empty nest syndrome? Relax parents, enjoy your break.” I wrote it as a joke, as if my kids may eventually return home for whatever reason.

Empty nest syndrome doesn’t have to be all negative. Look at the positive aspects of this new chapter. Enjoy the peace, travel spontaneously, or pursue career goals you might have put on hold.

Depending on where you look, it seems that empty-nest syndrome, which is indeed a real thing, can last from a couple of months to a year or more. But it's all good, as they say.

This can be an extremely painful and distressing time. This is what an empty nest syndrome is all about. Many parents go through this when their children go away to college or hostel.

How to deal with 'empty nest syndrome' as children head off to school There’s no doubt it’s a time of big transition for moms and dads, but it doesn’t have to be a bad, or sad thing.

Finding support Empty nester life can be thrilling — but as with any change, it's daunting, too. Vermani says it's important for parents to give themselves grace if they are struggling during this ...

How to deal with empty nest syndrome Ginny Brzezinski describes how she overcame empty nest syndrome and advice she gained from other women and mothers. David P. Hall / Getty Images By Ginny ...

Whether you're in the midst of empty nest syndrome or are anticipating it in the future, this informative gallery covers the symptoms, how to prepare, and how to cope. Click to discover more.

Empty nest and relationship changes While an empty nest might mean you have more time to spend with your partner, Billie explains that this in itself can be an issue. "With daily parenting less of ...

How can parents cope with empty-nest syndrome? MINNEAPOLIS — It's one of the biggest life changes for parents when their kids go off to college. The empty nest can stir up all kinds of emotions ...