Brooke Shields’ Emotional Journey: Embracing Empty Nest Syndrome as Daughter Heads to College
Staff Editor
2 min read
Brooke Shields Tearfully Reflects on Becoming an Empty Nester
Actress Brooke Shields recently shared an emotional moment with her followers as she dropped off her youngest daughter, Grier, at college. The 58-year-old mother of two posted a tearful video on Instagram, revealing her struggle with becoming an “empty nester.”
In the heartfelt video, Shields expressed the difficulty of adjusting to life without her daughters around. “It’s so hard,” she said, visibly holding back tears. The actress and her husband, Chris Henchy, have two daughters: Rowan, 21, and Grier, 18.
Shields recounted the emotional parting from Grier and admitted to crying during the ride home. She also shared a video of herself with her daughters in their college dorm room, highlighting the close bond she shares with them. The actress even mentioned having matching tattoos with her daughters.
Despite the challenges, Shields remains optimistic, acknowledging that her daughters will return. She fondly recalled how they still sleep on her bed and watch romantic comedies together during her husband’s work trips.
As parents across the country face similar experiences, experts offer advice on coping with an empty nest. Cristine Struble, who has navigated this transition, suggests saying “yes” to more social gatherings, allowing oneself to take naps, and focusing on relationships with partners.
Other parents have found unique ways to adjust. Veronica I. Arreola, a divorced empty nester, overcame “mom guilt” by taking a solo trip to New Zealand. She emphasized the importance of exploring the world herself after preparing her daughter to do the same.
As the back-to-school season continues, many parents like Shields are learning to embrace new opportunities and adjust to this significant life change. A representative for Shields did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
