The Empty Seat

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 …

Meet TWC’s Newest Columnist, Katie!

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 …

Dating After Loss: A Guide for Widows

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 …

The right (and wrong) things to say to a grieving friend

The article offers advice on how to support a grieving friend by sharing what to say—and what to avoid. Key tips include acknowledging the loss with empathy, saying things like “I’m here for you” or “I don’t have the right words,” and sharing memories of the deceased. It advises against using clichés or minimizing phrases like “at least they’re in a better place.” The article also stresses the importance of …

Navigating Taxes as a Widow: Understanding and Overcoming the Widow Penalty

woman-doing-taxes

Navigating the tax system can be a daunting headache even under normal circumstances, but for widows dealing with the emotional and financial aftermath of losing a spouse, it can feel overwhelming. At The Widow Collaborative (TWC), we understand these challenges and are here to offer support. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding and managing the “widow penalty” (survivor’s penalty), designed to help you avoid unexpected tax increases and further financial …

Clearing the Fog: Understanding and Managing “Widow’s Brain”

A grieving woman with her head in her hands, experiencing "widow's brain" and emotional distress.

Grieving the loss of a spouse is one of the most profound and challenging experiences one can face. Alongside the emotional turmoil, many widows and widowers report experiencing cognitive difficulties often referred to as “widow’s brain” or “widow fog.” This term encapsulates a range of cognitive challenges, including memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and a general sense of mental fogginess. Understanding and managing these challenges is crucial for anyone navigating the …

Finding professional help for grief

The article offers guidance on choosing a grief therapist or counselor. It underscores the importance of prioritizing self-care and finding the right support during the grieving process, emphasizing that it’s normal to seek help and take time to find the right fit.

Dealing with grief when loss is sudden

The article addresses the complexities of coping with sudden loss and offers advice for processing grief. It also emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and experiencing the various emotions that come with sudden loss, while also highlighting the significance of seeking support and understanding that closure might not be achievable in certain situations.

5 things young widows and widowers should know

The article offers guidance for young widows and widowers navigating the overwhelming experience of losing a spouse. It emphasizes the lack of preparation in society for handling such situations and provides five pieces of advice from experts and those who have experienced loss.

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