How to Survive Being a Single Mother

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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.

1

Prioritize your health and well-being.

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  1. [1] If you are struggling and feeling depressed, don't be afraid to seek help from friends, family or a health care professional.
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2

Maintain a blameless mindset.

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3

Build a support system.

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  1. [2] Make sure to have only friends who are of sound mind and can make healthy decisions care for your child in your absence.
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4

Think about what you bring to the table.

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  1. Are you a good reader? Are you a good communicator?, Do you know more than one language?
5

Ask for help if you need it.

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  1. They may be able to help you with food, clothing, medical needs, shelter, and future education for yourself. [3]
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6

Take responsibility and be selective.

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  1. 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.
7

Check phone books for helpful resources.

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  1. See if these hospitals can also refer you to social workers, or other social agencies.
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8

Get out of a bad neighborhood or unhealthy relationship.

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  1. [4]
9

Believe in yourself.

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  1. Know that while it might take a great deal of time to finish college while being a single parent, you can accomplish your goals.
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10

Use state-funded grants.

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  1. [5]
11

Ignore people who are critical of you.

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  1. [6]
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12

Keep your home clean and sanitary.

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13

Learn CPR.

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  1. You can also learn CPR from a volunteer firefighter or EMT. [7]
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14

Take parenting classes.

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  1. The Red Cross can not deny anyone classes for lack of ability to pay. The classes can be a life saver. Remember, parenting is a learned skill.


15

Remember that each day is created anew.

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16

Foster dignity and self-confidence for yourself.

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17

Fight loneliness.

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  1. You can also call a friend or family member. [8]
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18

Learn from your children.

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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    How do you deal with a child who wants to live with the other parent, and throws a tantrum?
    Community Answer
    Don'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).
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    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 21
  • Question
    What should I do if my boyfriend gets angry and hits me and my daughter, but he won't let me leave?
    AbigailAbernathy
    Top Answerer
    You 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
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 1 Helpful 17
  • Question
    What should I do if I am pregnant, already have one or more kids, and the father has left?
    Community Answer
    Reach 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
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      Warnings

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      Things You'll Need

      • Transportation (or funds for transportation)
      • Health (remember, your child depends on you)
      • Trustworthy caregiver

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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/click-here-happiness/201812/self-care-12-ways-take-better-care-yourself
      2. ↑ https://www.apa.org/helpcenter/emotional-support
      3. ↑ https://www.debt.org/advice/financial-assistance-for-single-parents/
      4. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/in-love-and-war/201303/5-ways-to-end-a-bad-relationship-for-good
      5. ↑ https://www.whattoexpect.com/family/financial-help-for-single-moms/
      6. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/where-science-meets-the-steps/201610/8-ways-stop-worrying-about-what-other-people-think
      7. ↑ https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/cpr/performing-cpr/child-baby-cpr
      8. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-science-success/201010/the-cure-loneliness

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