This article was co-authored by Moshe Ratson, MFT, PCC
. Moshe Ratson is the Executive Director of spiral2grow Marriage & Family Therapy, a coaching and therapy clinic in New York City. Moshe is an International Coach Federation accredited Professional Certified Coach (PCC). He received his MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from Iona College. Moshe is a clinical member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), and a member of the International Coach Federation (ICF).
There are 9 references
cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.
This article has been viewed 190,747 times.
Are you a single mother? Raising a child all on your own isn't an easy task, but you're not alone in any of this. We've got your back with plenty of supportive tips and suggestions to help you make it through each day. Read on to learn how you can maintain your mental health, thrive as an individual, and nurture your children in the best possible manner.
Steps
-
Take steps to ensure that you are taking care of yourself. [1] X Research source If you are struggling and feeling depressed, don't be afraid to seek help from friends, family or a health care professional.
-
Remember that society is filled with many good, kind, loving people. [2] X Trustworthy Source American Psychological Association Leading scientific and professional organization of licensed psychologists Go to source Make sure to have only friends who are of sound mind and can make healthy decisions care for your child in your absence.
-
Look to close family, universities, and social agencies for assistance. They may be able to help you with food, clothing, medical needs, shelter, and future education for yourself. [3] X Research source
-
Don't let anyone take advantage of you and force you into a decision. Remember, you are the mother. As long as you have a love for your child, you have strong morals, and you behave in a legally responsible manner, all should work out for the best. [4] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
-
Your safety and the safety of your children is the top priority. [5] X Research source
-
Use these grants for food, housing, and school if necessary. [6] X Research source
-
The opinions of critical people don't matter. [7] X Research source
-
Take infant and child CPR classes from the local Red Cross or hospital. You can also learn CPR from a volunteer firefighter or EMT. [8] X Research source
-
When you get lonely, paint, draw, read, sing, or mend something. You can also call a friend or family member. [9] X Research source
Community Q&A
-
QuestionHow do you deal with a child who wants to live with the other parent, and throws a tantrum?Community AnswerDon't force the child to be with you if she/he doesn't want to. Talk to him/her about why he/she doesn't want to be with you, and try to make a plan on how to fix it. You might want to get a counselor involved (if you can afford it).Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow -
QuestionWhat should I do if my boyfriend gets angry and hits me and my daughter, but he won't let me leave?AbigailAbernathyTop AnswererYou need to call the police and report the physical abuse. Let them know you have a child who is in danger and that you need to be removed from the home. They will detain your boyfriend and help you move out. If you are unable to get to a phone, then wait until he leaves or falls asleep and run to a neighbor's house. They will be able to call the police for you.Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow -
QuestionWhat should I do if I am pregnant, already have one or more kids, and the father has left?Community AnswerReach out for support. It's okay to ask for help. Also make sure the father pays child support.Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Tips
-
Thanks
- Set goals for your future and take steps to reach those goals.Thanks
- Stay safe.Thanks
Warnings
- Be wary of strangers and some "friends".Thanks
- Don't allow loneliness to guide your relationship habits.Thanks
Things You'll Need
- Transportation (or funds for transportation)
- Health (remember, your child depends on you)
- Trustworthy caregiver
You Might Also Like
References
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/click-here-happiness/201812/self-care-12-ways-take-better-care-yourself
- ↑ https://www.apa.org/helpcenter/emotional-support
- ↑ https://www.debt.org/advice/financial-assistance-for-single-parents/
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/childrens-health/in-depth/single-parent/art-20046774
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/in-love-and-war/201303/5-ways-end-bad-relationship-good
- ↑ https://www.whattoexpect.com/family/financial-help-for-single-moms/
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/where-science-meets-the-steps/201610/8-ways-stop-worrying-about-what-other-people-think
- ↑ https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/cpr/performing-cpr/child-baby-cpr
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-science-success/201010/the-cure-loneliness