In a second, someone can go from being a free person to a prisoner. Going to jail is a frightening experience, and it greatly impacts not only the one arrested, but the family as well. Seeing your spouse get arrested for a crime can be one of the most traumatic things you’ll face in your lifetime. It gets even more complicated when children are involved. You are forced into a new way of living. A-EZ Out Bail Bonds has listed a couple strategies to cope with your spouse in jail and how to adjust to this new transition.
Live One Day at a Time
If you start to think about your life in the future without your partner, you will get overwhelmed. A big change is taking place in your family right now, and the last thing you want to think about is permanency or years down the road. Live on step at a time, appreciating the little things in your day that bring a smile to your face. Stay positive for your children, and remind them that everything will be okay. They need you there for them more than ever, so live each moment in the present and show them how much you care.
Take Care of Yourself
It is important to grieve, since you are losing a very important person in your life for the time being. However, you need to take care of yourself as well. Have a regular sleep schedule, eat healthy, exercise regularly, and make time for yourself. Do things you love to do to help manage the stress, and surround yourself with loved ones.
Make a Plan and a Budget
If your spouse provided part of the income for your household, it’s important to make a budget and figure out how much you will need to take on yourself. Figure out what is necessary to survive and look for some other options. Jail can be expensive too; there are many things to take care of such as attorneys, fees, bail, etc. Create a monthly plan and budget and stick to it as much as possible.
Consider How You Will Tell Your Children
Explaining to your children why their parent is in jail is a difficult conversation to have. It is up to you what you want to tell them, but we recommend being honest about the situation. The children will cope better with honesty. Answer any questions they have and be direct with them.
Join a Group or Go to a Grief Counselor
Texas has many support groups for people with loved ones in jail. If a group setting doesn’t seem like the right fit for you, you can always go to a grief counselor for one-on-one sessions. Having your spouse in jail can take a huge mental toll. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
A-EZ Out Bail Bonds
If your spouse is in jail, you are not alone. Be open about your needs and reach out to others for help. If your spouse qualifies for a bail bond, A-EZ Out Bail Bonds can help you get them out of jail quickly! We will be with you every step of the way, and reunite your family once again.