Gwyneth Paltrow Opens Up About the Challenges of Empty Nest Syndrome

Gwyneth Paltrow Says Becoming an Empty Nester Is Causing Nervous Breakdown

Gwyneth Paltrow. Donato Sardella/Getty Images for Saint Laurent

Gwyneth Paltrow is feeling anxious about her kids leaving for college and becoming an empty nester. She expressed her feelings during her recent In Goop Health Summit in Carlsbad, California. Paltrow, who is 51 years old, admitted that the thought of her children leaving has been overwhelming. She even considered drastic changes like quitting her job, selling her house, and moving. This transition has truly thrown her life into chaos.

The actress, Gwyneth Paltrow, has two children, Apple (19) and Moses (18), with her former husband, Chris Martin, the lead singer of Coldplay. She is also a stepmother to her husband Brad Falchuk's children from a previous relationship, Isabella (19) and Brody (17).

Since starting her lifestyle company, Goop, in 2008, Paltrow has not only excelled in her acting career but also found success as an entrepreneur. Despite her professional achievements, her children have always been her top priority.

Being a mother has always been my main identity. My oldest, Apple, is turning 20 in May. I have centered my life around them, their schedules, and school routines. As they become more independent, like driving themselves or taking on new responsibilities, I am gradually learning to let go. Thankfully, I am surrounded by a supportive group of mom friends who have been by my side through it all. We have raised our kids together, and it feels like we are all in this journey of motherhood together.

To help me navigate through this phase of my children growing up, I am seeking guidance from professionals.

Gwyneth Paltrow Says Becoming an Empty Nester Is Causing Nervous Breakdown

Courtesy of Gwyneth Paltrow/Instagram

At her summit, Paltrow shared a perspective from psychologist-astrologist Jennifer Freed. Freed suggested viewing the empty nest as a chance to be free birds instead. Paltrow found this idea empowering, shifting the focus from loss to freedom. She mentioned feeling less guilty about saying yes to a girls weekend.

This year, Moses is starting classes at Brown University. Paltrow already went through the experience of one of her children leaving the nest when Apple went to Vanderbilt University in fall 2022.

"It has been a big change for me. When I decided to leave Apple, I wasn't sure what to expect. I knew it would be tough because we were always so close," Paltrow told We in October 2022. "But I never imagined it would be this hard. It felt like the most painful breakup I've ever experienced."

Just recently, Paltrow shared that she has declined many acting opportunities over the years in order to prioritize her children.

On the Wednesday, April 17 episode of Today With Hoda & Jenna, she mentioned, "There were a lot." She went on to reflect that although it didn't feel like a sacrifice to her at the time, looking back through a cultural lens made her realize how surprising it might be for people to know she turned down certain movies.

Editor's P/S:

's candid reflections on the challenges of becoming an empty nester resonate deeply with many parents. The transition from being the center of children's lives to embracing a new chapter can be both exciting and daunting. Paltrow's openness about her struggles and the support she has found in her community of mom friends highlights the importance of seeking guidance and sharing experiences during this significant life stage.

The idea of viewing the empty nest as a time for personal growth and freedom is an empowering perspective. It encourages parents to embrace the opportunities that come with their children's independence, rather than dwelling on the loss of their constant presence. Paltrow's decision to decline acting roles in order to prioritize her children demonstrates the depth of her commitment to their well-being. While it may seem surprising to some, it underscores the profound love and dedication that many parents feel towards their children.