The death of a spouse is often the explosion of dreams,
future plans, and one’s identity. Losing a companion, friend, provider, partner,
or the many roles they played in your life, can be deeply disruptive and
painful. Sometimes it is hard to navigate history, shared
secrets, hopes, hardships, and all the other feelings that can accompany the
loss of a spouse. Relationships are complicated and this is one of the most
intimate types of relationship. As a result, a flood of feelings can seem
consuming. Your grief may be about the person who died, but also include
concerns about your children, finances, friends, your household, and much more.
All of these other variables will influence your grief and the type of support
you need. Because a spousal loss often includes all of these other variables,
it is so important that you ask for help. When and where you can, let other
people lighten the load.
Here are some things to consider:
- Identify
a point person – allow this person to help you field calls, identify and
delegate a to-do list to friendly helpers, ensure your hygiene and help you
manage a household or children. A trusted friend or family member can help you
navigate this incredible impact on your routine and daily life. They can also
be your voice when you struggle to find yours on a hard day.
- Get
support – not only do you not have to go at it alone, a good friend can create
the space you’ll likely need to process your grief, share stories, express
feelings, and help you find your footing again. If you can lean into several
friends that is ideal, but unfortunately, many people are uncomfortable with
grief. Your most helpful listeners and best support might be people you least
expect so be open.
- Put on
your seatbelt – unfortunately, the death of a spouse includes so much
paperwork. It tends to be cumbersome, time consuming, and painful. Brace
yourself for this. Also, ask your point person to help, even if it is just to
coordinate the correct attorneys, financial planners, etc.
- Exercise
– grief is not just an emotion. It comes with fatigue and other ailments.
Exercise is a healthy coping strategy if you’re able to do so.
- Minimize
big decisions – grief is an intense experience. To the best of your
ability, do not make critical decisions that you could regret later or that
drastically uproots your life. Stability can be very helpful until you find
your new footing. Of course, the death
of a spouse may force you to sell a home or make decisions you prefer not to
make. Lean on a compassionate friend to help guide and support you through
these decisions.