When your family experiences a loss, it can rattle everything you know. The entire structure you relied on for years can feel unsteady. During this time, it is often your siblings that you have to rely on.
After all, you are all in the same boat. Even if you all had very different relationships with your late parent, you all lost a family member. So, how can you create a support system?
1. Be there for each other
This is the most important step to take. It might be difficult to reach out, depending on the details or history of your relationship. However, losing a parent can leave you and your siblings struggling with grief and a confusing array of emotions.
More than likely, you have your own lives and families now. It may have been a long time since you lived under the same roof. You may not even live in the same state anymore. Despite that, you should try to be there for each other. It can help to check in with each other regularly, even if it is through a simple text or phone call.
2. Prepare for emotions to run high
Each sibling is dealing with grief, but it is important to remember that it manifests differently for everyone. So, siblings might experience different “stages” at the same time. These contradictions can lead siblings to snap at each other and say things they do not mean.
3. Make a plan to manage disputes effectively
Conflicting emotions, planning a funeral and dealing with probate can also lead stress levels to run high. This makes it even more critical to take steps to avoid disputes. It can help to:
- Consider past family issues that could arise, and communicate about them
- Seek legal guidance to understand and manage California probate issues
- Work to stay true to your parent’s wishes
Avoiding disputes is easier said than done, even if you get along with your siblings. However, if you take time to prepare, you can prevent any conflicts from turning into disputes that affect the probate of your loved one’s estate.