How to Survive Being a Single Mother

Co-authored by Moshe Ratson, MFT, PCC

Last Updated: April 25, 2025 References

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.

Download Article

^{[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.^{[2]
X
Expert Source

Fernando Campos
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Expert Interview}^{[3]
X
Expert Source

Moshe Ratson, MFT, PCC
Marriage & Family Therapist

Expert Interview}

2

Maintain a blameless mindset.

Download Article

3

Build a support system.

Download Article

^{[4]
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.^{[5]
X
Expert Source

Deanna Dawson-Jesus, CD (DONA)
Birth & Postpartum Doula, Childbirth, & Lactation Educator

Expert Interview}^{[6]
X
Expert Source

Moshe Ratson, MFT, PCC
Marriage & Family Therapist

Expert Interview}

4

Think about what you bring to the table.

Download Article

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.

Download Article

^{[7]
X
Expert Source

Moshe Ratson, MFT, PCC
Marriage & Family Therapist

Expert Interview} They may be able to help you with food, clothing, medical needs, shelter, and future education for yourself.^{[8]
X
Expert Source

Fernando Campos
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Expert Interview}^{[9]
X
Research source}

6

Take responsibility and be selective.

Download Article

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.

Download Article

See if these hospitals can also refer you to social workers, or other social agencies.^{[10]
X
Expert Source

Fernando Campos
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Expert Interview}

8

Get out of a bad neighborhood or unhealthy relationship.

Download Article

^{[11]
X
Research source}

9

Believe in yourself.

Download Article

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

10

Use state-funded grants.

Download Article

^{[12]
X
Research source}

11

Ignore people who are critical of you.

Download Article

^{[13]
X
Research source}

12

Keep your home clean and sanitary.

Download Article

13

Learn CPR.

Download Article

You can also learn CPR from a volunteer firefighter or EMT.^{[14]
X
Research source}

14

Take parenting classes.

Download Article

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]
X
Expert Source

Deanna Dawson-Jesus, CD (DONA)
Birth & Postpartum Doula, Childbirth, & Lactation Educator

Expert Interview}

15

Remember that each day is created anew.

Download Article

16

Foster dignity and self-confidence for yourself.

Download Article

17

Fight loneliness.

Download Article

You can also call a friend or family member.^{[16]
X
Research source}

18

Learn from your children.

Download Article

Community Q&A

Search

Add New Question

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).

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 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 19
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
Yes No

Not Helpful 4 Helpful 20

Ask a Question

200 characters left

Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.

Submit

Tips

Take measures to build self-esteem.

Thanks
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Set goals for your future and take steps to reach those goals.

Thanks
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Stay safe.

Thanks
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Show More Tips

Submit a Tip

All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published

Name

Please provide your name and last initial

Submit

Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

Warnings

Be wary of strangers and some "friends".

Thanks
Helpful 14 Not Helpful 0
Don't allow loneliness to guide your relationship habits.

Thanks
Helpful 9 Not Helpful 0