Navigating Grief as a Single Parent: Practical Tips for Coping and Healing

Bereavement

Apr 2

We know how tough it can be to juggle everything on your own, and now you're dealing with the heavy weight of grief too. It's not easy, you're stronger than you think, and there are ways to get through this. Here are some real-life tips from single parents who've been there:

Lean on Stories and Songs

When you're feeling lost, diving into a good book or blasting some tunes can be a saving grace. Check out autobiographies from folks like Nick Cave, Richard E. Grant, or Rio Ferdinand. Their stories of loss and resilience might just resonate with you. And music, it might make you cry, but it might also feel like a comforting hug for you.

Take Care of Number One

I know it's hard to prioritise self-care when you've got kids to look after but it's crucial. Make time to move your body, eat well, and do things that bring you joy. Remember, a healthy you means a better parent for your kiddos. Make a list of intentions that can help focus you.

“I wrote an email to myself to keep me on track, it inluded things like exercise, meeting up with friends and learning a new skill.” SPW Member

“My advice would be it’s ok to say no to people. The first few weeks and months you will get lots of offers to go places and do things but don’t overwhelm yourself. Saying no won’t offend them.” SPW Member

Laugh Through the Tears

It might sound strange, but humour can be a powerful tool for healing. So, surround yourself with people who make you laugh aswell as those ready to support and show you love. It might feel like a relief valve for all that pent-up emotion.

“Sometimes it’s all you have to be able to laugh, even in the darkest times.”

Get the School Involved

Dealing with your grief is hard enough, but your children will also need your support navigating their way through their grief. That's why getting the school involved can be a game-changer. Talk to the teachers and counsellors about what's going on at home. You might be surprised at how supportive they can be. Also don’t forget to keep mentioning the grief for your child as they go through aswell, as a parent’s death is a significant event in a child’s life that they may need support throughout the years with.

“The school involved by doing activities like an insect burial with my daughter’s class. It was a way to explain what was happening and involve the school community in our grieving process.”

“I informed others (nursery/school) what I’d told her so it wasn’t a shock when she brought it up.”

Embrace Your Unique Grieving Process

Do what you want—it's up to you how you grieve. There's no right or wrong way to navigate through this. Some days you might feel like you don't give a damn, and that's OK too. Take your time with your grief and try not to put timeframes on things. Plus, let go of the pressure to meet someone else right away. Focus on getting yourself right first and don't rush into anything.

Find Peace in Letting Go

The one thing that is good about grief is that you don’t worry about the small stuff any longer. So, take a deep breath, let go of what you can't control, and focus on what truly matters.

Take a deep breath, give yourself some grace, and know that you're doing the best you can. You're not alone in this journey, and brighter days are ahead.

Speak to Others Who Truly Understand What Your Going Through

Lots of our members expressed how helpful it was talking to others that are in the same boat, as they are the only one’s that truly understand. Reach out and connect with others that have been through bereavement. It’s so complex and complicated that being around people that get it can help a lot.

“Whilst the sympathy from others can be overwhelming and you often end up apologising for your situation.”

“Even now, 11 years later, there are still times when I need other WAY members to tell me I'm not going mad and whatever I'm dealing with is still normal.”