Actor Benjamin Boe Rasmussen describes the “life-changing” experience of his sons moving out as triggering a midlife crisis, a period of sadness, confusion, and loss of meaning. He equates the feeling to being “sawn in half,” prompting him to understand the term midlife crisis.

The departure of his sons after 20 years of centering his life around them led to a reevaluation of his identity and purpose. Despite knowing it would happen and even helping them move out, the reality hit him hard, leaving him feeling like a chapter had ended abruptly.

This experience aligns with the Empty Nest Syndrome, a term for the emotional distress parents can feel when their children leave home. This transition can lead to feelings of purposelessness, grief, and a loss of identity, often coinciding with the realization of being halfway through life.

Rasmussen initially considered impulsive reactions like buying motorcycles and getting tattoos, a common response for men facing a midlife crisis. He recognized this as an attempt to escape feelings of inadequacy.

He and his wife, actress Ditte Hansen, initially immersed themselves in work to avoid addressing the void. However, they eventually began communicating, rediscovering their connection and desires for the future.

Rasmussen acknowledges that the crisis ultimately led to a constructive rediscovery of his relationship with his wife and a shift in perspective. Today, he values the small things in life, such as visits from his now-adult children and sharing in their successes.

He emphasizes the importance of defining one’s own meaning in life rather than searching for it. He finds genuine happiness in everyday moments and sees the midlife crisis as a gift that has brought him closer to understanding what truly matters.