As a young military widowed mother who has been on this widowhood journey, I understand how difficult it can be to navigate this new life with young children. Losing a spouse is one of the hardest things a person can go through, and it’s even harder when you have young children to care for. In this blog, I want to share some first steps that new widows with young children can take to help them navigate this new chapter in their lives.
- Get support: The first step for a new widow with young children should be seeking support. You need people who understand what you’re going through and who can help you cope with your loss. Reach out to your family and friends, or join a local support group for widows. There are also online support groups that can connect you with other widows who have young children.
- Seek professional help: Grieving is a complex process, and it’s okay to seek the help of a professional. Find a therapist or counselor who specializes in grief counseling to help you process your emotions and find ways to cope with your loss. They can also offer guidance on how to help your children through the grieving process.
- Manage your finances: Losing a spouse can have a significant impact on your finances. As a new widow, it’s important to take stock of your financial situation and make a plan for moving forward. You may need to adjust your budget, apply for government benefits, or seek financial planning advice to get your finances in order.
- Make arrangements for your children: If you have young children, it’s essential to make arrangements for their care and upbringing. You may need to revise your will and appoint a guardian for your children. You may also want to update your life insurance policy to provide for your children’s future needs.
- Take care of yourself: Finally, it’s crucial to prioritize self-care. Grieving can take a toll on your physical and emotional health, and you need to take care of yourself to be there for your children. Make sure to eat a healthy diet, get enough rest, and engage in activities that bring you joy. I can’t say enough about the importance of self-care, and if you are looking for a super simple way to practice self-care without much effort at all, checkout my tool kit here. This is the tool kit that pulled me out of the deep abyss of depression and suicidal thoughts from grief so that I could move through the widowhood journey more gently than I could ever imagine. This tool kit saved my life and saved my children from a life without both their parents. Remember, it’s okay to take a break from your responsibilities and allow yourself time to grieve.
Losing a spouse is one of the most challenging experiences a person can face, but seeking support and taking positive actions can help you and your children navigate this new chapter in your lives. From seeking professional help to managing your finances and making arrangements for your children, these first steps can help you become more secure and confident as you journey through widowhood. As someone who has been there, my hope and prayer is that this blog post has provided you with some valuable resources and support to help you on your journey of healing.