Dating After Bereavement - How Long Should I wait?

Losing a loved one is one of the hardest things we have to face in life. But eventually, once the grief has subsided and importantly once you feel ready, it is highly likely that you will move forward and try to find love again. This can happen at any age but one of the most often asked questions is… how long should I wait?

It is often said that it takes on average two years to recover from the loss of a spouse or loved one. But no two individuals are the same and we all tend to move forward with our lives at our own pace.

The key is you and how you are feeling and your openness and readiness to begin a new chapter in your life and meet new people. It is also often said that you will never be 100% ready. Feelings of guilt about looking for a new partner or companion are very common and totally understandable. But research has shown that once you dip your toe in the water and try meeting new potential partners these feelings subside over time.

Many people find that joining an online dating service such as WidowsDatingOnline aimed specifically for the needs of widows or widowers is a great way to meet new people in a safe and secure environment. Here you can create a profile and upload a photo or two and then start to browse other like minded singles from the comfort of your own home. Best of all, you can go at your own pace, see who you like, chat and get to know them first and only when you feel ready, progress to a date / meeting in person.

Choosing when to start dating again is a very personal decision. It is perfectly normal to feel guilty about wanting company and physical love after bereavement. It is also perfectly normal to never feel 100% ready to start dating again. But with online dating now the second most popular way to meet people (after introductions from friends) this is a proven way to help widows and widowers take that first step towards finding a new partner. Once you feel like you are ready to start dating again then embrace the opportunity. You’ll be glad that you did.