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wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 24 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time.
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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 mental your health, thrive as an individual, and nurture your children in the best possible manner.
Steps
1
Prioritize your health and well-being.
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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.
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2
Maintain a blameless mindset.
3
Build a support system.
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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.[3] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
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4
Think about what you bring to the table.
5
Ask for help if you need it.
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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.[4] X Research source
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6
Take responsibility and be selective.
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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.[5] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
7
Check phone books for helpful resources.
8
Get out of a bad neighborhood or unhealthy relationship.
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Your safety and the safety of your children is the top priority.[6] X Research source
9
Believe in yourself.
10
Use state-funded grants.
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Use these grants for food, housing, and school if necessary.[7] X Research source
11
Ignore people who are critical of you.
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The opinions of critical people don't matter.[8] X Research source
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12
Keep your home clean and sanitary.
13
Learn CPR.
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Take infant and child CPR classes from the local Red Cross or hospital. You can also learn CPR from a volunteer firefighter or EMT.[9] X Research source
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14
Take parenting classes.
15
Remember that each day is created anew.
16
Foster dignity and self-confidence for yourself.
17
Fight loneliness.
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When you get lonely, paint, draw, read, sing, or mend something. You can also call a friend or family member.[10] X Research source
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18
Learn from your children.
Community Q&A
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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).
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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.
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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.
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Warnings
- Be wary of strangers and some "friends".⧼thumbs_response⧽
- Don't allow loneliness to guide your relationship habits.⧼thumbs_response⧽
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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
- ↑ 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.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/social-support/art-20044445
- ↑ 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
About This Article
wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 24 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 175,287 times.
1 votes - 100%
Co-authors: 24
Updated: December 12, 2022
Views: 175,287
Categories: Motherhood
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