I have always been a worrier, and anxiety is a family affair-genetically touching many of my family members. I remember a childhood friend describing me as “a nervous little person.” This is who I am. How Anxiety & Grief Intertwine My worries have shifted, changed, and continue to transform as I age and experience life. My anxiety has ebbed and flowed, sometimes worse… sometimes better. Early in my grief, …
On top of the emotional toll of losing your spouse, you may suddenly find yourself managing financial and legal matters that once felt far removed from your day-to-day life. Insurance—whether it’s life, health, or homeowners—often tops that list, and trying to navigate claims or policy changes while grieving can feel overwhelming. This guide will walk you through the crucial insurance steps to take after your spouse’s death. We’ll also cover …
“Everything happens for a Reason…” Is a phrase that often gets thrown around after a loss of a loved one. Most grievers will accept the comment, give a polite nod and thank you, because we know it was a comment made of goodwill. It’s a comment that is supposed to help us heal or somehow make sense of the devastation that has just hit our lives. Death and loss are …
Losing a spouse is one of the most difficult experiences anyone can endure, and during this heartbreaking time, many widows find themselves facing complex financial questions, especially concerning any outstanding debts their spouse may have left behind. One of the most common concerns is: If a spouse dies, what happens to their debt? Is a widow responsible for debt after death, and how does one manage spouse’s debt after death? …
As children we are always in a rush to grow up. A rush for summer break, that first boyfriend/girlfriend, maybe that first kiss, driver’s license, 18th birthday, basically a rush to become an adult. Do you ever feel like your life is still in this “rush” mode? That we are always future seeking? Always planning, dreaming, plotting: “the next thing.” The Day Everything Changed My “next thing” completely changed on …
Losing a spouse is one of the most profound challenges anyone can face. The emotional toll is immense, but there are also practical and financial hurdles to navigate, especially when it comes to Social Security benefits. If you’re reading this as a widow or widower, you may be eligible for Social Security survivor benefits that can help ease the financial burden during such a difficult time. This guide will provide …
I recently came across this really thoughtful model regarding grief. It’s called “Growing around Grief” and was created by grief counselor Lois Tonkin. Basically, the model demonstrates that at first when a loved one passes away grief fills every part of your life. Grief is all consuming. Instead of the original thought that grief shrinks as time goes by, she shares that our grief doesn’t go away, it doesn’t shrink- …
Birthdays, anniversaries, lost teeth, proms, holidays, first day of school, choir concerts, basketball games, so many achievements and accomplishments both big and small. Feeling the need to cheer loud enough for two but always an empty seat next to me. Always a feeling of something missing and knowing it’s YOU. Knowing how proud you would be, imagining you with them as they grow and change from the child you only …
My name is Katie O’Connor. I pride myself on being a mother, wife, widow, writer, occasional comedian, licensed K-12 School Counselor, and sharer of my loss story so others don’t feel alone in theirs. First off, I am deeply sorry for your loss and the tragedy that has brought you here. However, I am happy you are seeking healing, hope, and whatever you need in your heart as you navigate …
The journey of considering dating after the loss of a spouse is a uniquely complex one. Grief, memories, and love for a partner who has passed intertwine with the human desire for connection and companionship. For many widows, navigating these waters can bring up a range of emotions, from hope to guilt, and questions like “Am I ready?” or “Is it okay to move forward?” This guide is meant to …
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