The Big Send Off: Navigating the Contradictory Emotions you may experience sending your child off to college.

The Big Send Off: Navigating the Contradictory Emotions you may experience sending your child off to college.

As a professional mother, the back-to-school season is always filled with excitement and change. This year our youngest went off to college and I thought (as a professional in the mental health field) I would be the master of this transition. Alas, how do you deal with both loss and newfound freedom at the same time?! Sending your child off to college can stir a whirlwind of complex emotions, but it's also an opportunity for personal growth and a transformed relationship with your child.

Here’s my go-to list for navigating these complex emotions:
😢 Loss and Grief: It's entirely natural to experience a profound sense of loss as your child leaves for college. You may grieve the end of a significant phase of your life together, marked by nurturing and constant presence.
😳 Loneliness and Anxiety: Feelings of loneliness and anxiety can creep in as your home suddenly feels emptier. The routines you once shared with your child are disrupted.
🤗 Pride and Hope: Amidst the sorrow, there's often a sense of pride and hope. Your child's journey into adulthood is a testament to your successful parenting.
👍 Acknowledge Your Feelings: The first step is to acknowledge and validate your emotions. It's okay to feel sadness, grief, and even a bit lost. Give yourself permission to grieve.
🎨 Create Space for Yourself: Use the newfound time and space to revisit past joys and hobbies you may have set aside while raising your child.
🌎 Explore New Opportunities: Consider this as an opportunity for personal growth. Set new goals, whether they are related to your career, education, or personal development.
💡 Becoming an Advisor: As your child enters adulthood, your role will evolve into that of an advisor. Offer guidance when asked, but also respect their autonomy in decision-making.
✍ Open Communication: Foster open and honest communication with your child. Share your experiences and insights, and encourage them to share their thoughts and challenges.
🛑 Respect Boundaries: Recognize that your child may need space to explore their independence. It's essential to respect their boundaries and allow them to make their own choices, even if they make mistakes along the way.
🎉 Celebrating Milestones: Celebrate the milestones and achievements of your child as they navigate their own path. Be their biggest cheerleader.
🌿 Counseling and Support: Professional counseling or support groups can provide a safe space to discuss your feelings.

💫 While this time may come with complex emotions of loss, it also brings opportunities for rediscovery and growth. Embrace these feelings, nurture your interests, and look forward to a matured relationship with your child. Your guidance and support will continue to be pivotal, evolving as they step into adulthood."🌟