Where to Start After Losing Your Spouse

You Are Not Alone

  • If you are newly bereaved, our condolences go out to you. Please know that your are not alone. We, too, have experienced the terrible pain and numbness of loss, and we stand with you.

Grief Complicates Life in Unimaginable Ways

  • Normal events and decisions are lost in the fog of uncertainty and pain. This is a normal part of the grieving process.
  • Sadly, life in the world around us continues to march on, and we are carried ahead, whether we want to be or not.

Things You Can Do

  • Take care of yourself. Do what you need to do. This may mean letting go of some responsibilities, or simply going for a walk or taking a nap.
  • Identify what depletes you, and what energizes you – and seek the latter.
  • Do not ignore your own health. Stress will make you more susceptible to illness.
  • Exercise is always beneficial to your health and relieves stress.
  • Physical massage may help compensate for the lack of touch in your life.
  • If you do get sick, go to the doctor. Ask a friend or family member to go with you. Write down what was said. Investigate the side effects of any prescription drugs before you start taking them.
  • Consider keeping a journal – it may help you express and understand what you’re feeling.
  • Continue to pray, even if you don’t know the right words – God will hear you.
  • The distraction of grief makes you vulnerable – take advantage of things that will help keep you safe.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help – remind yourself that those who love you really do want to help.

Identify what depletes you, and what energizes you – and seek the latter.