How will I cope

[NevvaEva]

My mum is elderly (83) and we’ve a close relationship. I don’t really have any close friends, more people I just know from work, etc. I often wonder how I will go on once the inevitable happens and mum isn’t here any longer. I’m an only child, no family for three hours away.
How can I prepare myself to live in this life without her?

She will once have been where you are, contemplating life without her mother. If you feel able, ask her how she coped and what advice she can give you. Also make sure you know all the practical details about her funeral plans, songs, where the will is stored - the more prepared you can be the less stressful it will be. Be guided by her.

Do you feel passionate about anything OP?
Nature, law, theatre, writing, science?
And you do that.

Her own mother lived hours away so the closeness wasn’t so much. I can’t even think that far about funeral arrangements. It’s too much right now.

Yes and no. I have my interests but worry it’s only a distraction to how I’m really feeling. If that makes sense.