How to Survive Being a Single Mother

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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    Take steps to ensure that you are taking care of yourself.[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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    Make time for yourself to create and clarify your values.
3

Build a support system.

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    Remember that society is filled with many good, kind, loving people.[2] Make sure to have only friends who are of sound mind and can make healthy decisions care for your child in your absence.[3]
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4

Think about what you bring to the table.

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    Consider the skills that you already possess. 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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    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]
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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]
7

Check phone books for helpful resources.

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    Look for hospitals that can refer you to child crisis centers. 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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    Your safety and the safety of your children is the top priority.[6]
9

Believe in yourself.

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    Remind yourself that you will succeed. 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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    Use these grants for food, housing, and school if necessary.[7]
11

Ignore people who are critical of you.

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    The opinions of critical people don't matter.[8]
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12

Keep your home clean and sanitary.

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    Cleanliness means health.
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]
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14

Take parenting classes.

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    Many times, these classes will cost nothing if you speak to the receptionist. 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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    You are the architect of your life.
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16

Foster dignity and self-confidence for yourself.

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    Respecting yourself helps you create a character-building environment for your child.
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]
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18

Learn from your children.

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    That is a continuum that is ever-evolving.

Community Q&A

  • Question
    How do you deal with a child who wants to live with the other parent, and throws a tantrum?
    Community Answer
    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).
  • Question
    What should I do if my boyfriend gets angry and hits me and my daughter, but he won't let me leave?
    AbigailAbernathy
    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.
  • Question
    What should I do if I am pregnant, already have one or more kids, and the father has left?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Reach out for support. It's okay to ask for help. Also make sure the father pays child support.
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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.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/social-support/art-20044445
  4. ↑ https://www.debt.org/advice/financial-assistance-for-single-parents/
  5. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/childrens-health/in-depth/single-parent/art-20046774
  6. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/in-love-and-war/201303/5-ways-end-bad-relationship-good
  7. ↑ https://www.whattoexpect.com/family/financial-help-for-single-moms/
  8. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/where-science-meets-the-steps/201610/8-ways-stop-worrying-about-what-other-people-think
  9. ↑ https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/cpr/performing-cpr/child-baby-cpr
  1. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-science-success/201010/the-cure-loneliness

About This Article

Deanna Dawson-Jesus, CD (DONA)
Co-authored by:
Deanna Dawson-Jesus, CD (DONA)
Birth & Postpartum Doula, Childbirth, & Lactation Educator
This article was co-authored by Deanna Dawson-Jesus, CD (DONA). Deanna Dawson-Jesus is a Birth Doula, Childbirth, and Lactation Educator based in Danville, California. As the owner of Birthing Babies - A Celebration of Life, Deanna has 19 years of birth doula experience and has assisted with over 250 births. She also has over five years of postpartum doula experience and assists more than ten families. Deanna has additional extensive training in Assisted Reproductive Technologies, VBAC support, and Perinatal Loss Support. She is a Certified Birth Doula by DONA International and teaches at Blossom Birth and Family. This article has been viewed 178,608 times.
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Co-authors: 24
Updated: March 31, 2023
Views: 178,608
Categories: Motherhood
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