Placing your child with another family can be a difficult decision to make. And while you’ve probably received support with deciding to place your child or not, it is important to know that there is support after placement readily available to you—if you need it. Just like you didn’t have to go through placing your child alone, you don’t have to go through the after-placement portion of your life alone either. There are people, resources, and programs out there specifically for you and those in similar circumstances.

Coping with your loss is a progression. It won’t happen overnight. Because of this, it is important to have a solid support system in place, if at all possible. Your support system can consist of trusted professionals, friends, loved ones, others in similar circumstances, and support group members. You don’t have to feel alone during this time.

If you prefer to deal with your emotions by yourself, there are still several methods for you to try. While you’ll be able to read more on the specific pages, here is a brief overview:

Create an Adoption Scrapbook: This is a great way to remember your child. It is something that you can look back on whenever you need to. If you so decide, you can also send it as a gift to your child and his or her adoptive parents.

Writing Letters: Depending on the type of adoption upon which you’ve agreed, writing letters may be an option for you. If writing letters to your child and his or her adoptive family is not acceptable, consider writing letters to your child—-that you won’t send. You can keep these for yourself, include them in your scrapbook, or wait until reconnection.

Other topics you can read about in the “Support after Placement” section are healing emotionally, dealing with unexpected expenses, and how to have face-to-face visits—-among many other topics. There is a plethora of information that can help you through this difficult time, and encourage you to heal and move forward with your life.