15,000,000 children head off to college in the United States each year.

That means there are a lot of parents left to adjust to an empty nest.

The American Psychological Association's same study showed that about 34% of empty nesters experience significant sadness, and around 25% report a sense of loss and identity crisis.

So clearly, for most of us parents, this is a vulnerable stage in our lives—one that will either define us or defeat us.

Now the question is: What should you do?

Allow yourself permission to let your child go. (Don't worry, we'll explain.)

For example, rather than making decisions for your college-bound child, try encouraging independence in your child. This may look like only helping your child make decisions when they ask you to help. Or, you can chat with your child about how they will manage their own time instead of doing it for them.

You helped your child grow up to be someone who could make their own choices. Believe in how you raise them, let go, and make room for new changes in your life.

Take care,

Neil and Charnell