Feeling sad after son left for uni

[Lolap212616]

Really struggling to manage emotionally since my son left for uni.
I know that this is a great opportunity for him but we are so close and spent alot of our free time together, I feel so lonely.
It does not help that my relationship with my partner is poor and my teen daughter ignores me most of the time.

Hi There. I feel for you. I was taken completely by surprise at how I felt when DS1 when off to Uni. It felt like life would never be the same. But it will, it settles into a new normal. It really wasn't long before DS1 came home for the long Christmas break and it made the whole Christmas seem more special somehow. He did come home a couple of times before then and he was only 2 hours away so we did see him for a Sunday Lunch (Students seem to appreciate free food!). I kept in touch by sending the occasional whats app message, not requiring a reply just sharing a picture or a bit of news. You are his Mum and he will still need you, but it will be different that's all. I knew that all was well with DS1 when he was silent, but he was always quick to let me know if he needed something! Think about the things you enjoy doing together and make plans for when he is home again. In my experience when you look at how long they are away from home for its a lot less than you think/feel. Both DS1 and DS2 have lived back at home post-Uni and before starting work. Sorry you are not getting support at home, my DH just didn't feel the loss the same way as me (although strangely he did cry when we dropped him off!!).

I am sorry you are struggling! It is a very difficult time and one for which most parents are not emotionally prepared. Keeping busy with work, exercise, projects or whatever you have time to do can help. Perhaps think of something new? That way you could embark on a new adventure at the same time he does — doesn’t have to be anything “big” — perhaps explore adult education to see what’s on offer (foreign language or bridge or bread-making or gardening…)
Above all, be kind to yourself!
best wishes

He'll be back - with a bag of dirty laundry!

I dropped mine last child at uni yesterday. Feels like my heart is broken 😞 selfish I know xx

I went on a weird emotional rollercoaster when my dd left for uni. I felt so lost without her even though I was so excited for her taking this step. I am settled now, and when we see each other it’s great. You’ll be fine. It is a new stage of our mummy lives and that can be scary - you’ll settle like I did.