Posted 7/25/2013 5:12 PM (GMT 0)
It is going to be hard for awhile. This is a major transition for both of you...but for the mom, I believe it is especially tough.
You feel as if a part of your heart is going with them...
...actually more than your heart...part of you! Your identity as a mom, the role that you have been playing the better part of the last two decades!
You are probably going to have somewhat of an identity crisis here for a bit...and that is okay and normal.
However, the key to mental health and happiness is flexibility and adaptation.
You have to eventually accept the new situation, and your role in it. You are now a mom of an adult. Your daughter will ALWAYS need you...just in a different dynamic now.
I do know that she would want (and need ) you to be happy and strong though. So the best gift that you can give her and yourself (and your husband and other kids (?) ) is to do the things that will help you to get well.
Therapy, medication, self-help are all great options for treating anxiety.
Getting involved in new activities, taking up or renewing a hobby, volunteering....are all good for expanding one's world, and keeping distracted from the things that can make us sad.
Happiness is a choice. We are not victims of circumstance. Although we can't control everything in life...we do have control over our reaction to it. Choose to embrace this new chapter in your life and to be happy.:)
We are here for you along the journey!!! Big hugs!
S.C.