Empty nest

Oldest is in 2nd yr uni, youngest is in first year uni. They are flatting now so not regularly coming home. Am experiencing sadness/hopelessness/anxiety/regret. We are friends which I am grateful for. Other than gratitude, what has helped you cope with the quiet house, lack of purpose, sense of there being no point to things now?

Good advice above. Also - sounds like you need to fill your days with more. Do you have a wonderful pet? Do you enjoy reading? If you still work, maybe throw yourself into it more, maybe look for interesting volunteer opportunities, take more time getting together with friends, travel, even if by yourself - you never know who you might meet. Then, when talking with children, they will understand you are doing more at home than just pining for them - they'll probably feel like calling more often just to hear what you're up to, and, you'll feel even more fulfilled with added interests!

Best of luck - you got this!