The death of a spouse is one of life’s most devastating times and is listed as the #1 cause of stress. In fact, studies from the Journals of Gerontology show that widows and widowers have a 30% risk of death within the first six months of their spouse’s death. The first year becomes the months filled with “firsts” without your loved one – the first Christmas, birthday, holidays, and anniversary. Facing these events on your own can feel overwhelming. However, it doesn’t have to be. Before you can truly move on with your life and find your way back, you must brace the following steps of your journey by:
- Accept the loss
- Adjust to life after your loved one has passed
- Seek out support
- Invest the energy to embrace the “new” you
Before you can begin to move forward after the loss of a loved one, it is normal to feel grief and sorrow as you lay your loved one to their final rest. You may feel shocked, numb, and fearful for your new life ahead. At some point, you may even feel angry towards your partner for leaving you behind. What’s important is how you decide to heal the emotional wound and find your way after losing a spouse.
Author: Jennifer Dawson
