As a parent who has lost your spouse, you may find yourself facing a lot of challenges. After all, being a widowed parent isn’t easy, especially if you have to plan funeral services on top of taking care of your duties as a parent. Despite the grief you and your child may be feeling, it’s possible to navigate the difficulties of being a widower and parent. Read on to find out some of the best tips to survive.
Find a Support System
It’s impossible to expect yourself to be able to take it all on alone. It’s essential that you find a support system to help you during this trying time. Whether it’s with other family members or friends, don’t be afraid to share the load with someone else. Shower your child with plenty of attention and love from everyone who is willing to help. The more love and affection you can give them from people in your circle, the less pressure you’ll feel on yourself to have to do it on your own when it feels impossible.
Keep Up With Routines
When you go through something as jolting as the depth of the other parent, the last thing you may want to do is follow a routine. There are some days when all you want to do is stay in bed and put the covers over your face. However, children need structure to give them a sense of regularity during a difficult time. A consistent atmosphere makes your children feel more stable and helps them know what to expect every day. The more routine you can provide the better.
Give Yourself Breaks
You may put a considerable amount of pressure on yourself to do everything and anything possible to ensure that your kids are OK. However, putting too much pressure on yourself may only wind up hurting you in the end. Don’t forget to give yourself space to breathe and take breaks. Slow down and remember that it’s going to take some time to get back to the way things once were. Don’t go back to work too soon or force yourself to go to social obligations that you’re not realistically ready for. Pushing yourself too hard too soon could lead to a backlash.
Find The Joy
When you’re going through something as difficult as the death of a loved one, it’s important that you try to find joy wherever possible. Sources of joy may be different depending on who you are. Some people may find joy watching a funny movie, while others may find joy in going for a long walk. Whatever it takes to find a moment of happiness during such a difficult time, embrace it and expose yourself to it as much as possible. It’s not uncommon for people going through grief to think that they’re not allowed to feel happy sometimes. Quite the opposite— give yourself time and be patient. After a while, you will slowly heal and so will your children
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