"When a woman or man loses a spouse, that one person is living a life that was built for two," says Ellen Kamp, who co-founded the W Connection, an online-based support group, which provides information on its website aimed at helping widows navigate these challenges. "This is a rebuilding process that takes years."

Ms. Kamp, whose husband died suddenly in 2006, says among the most important pieces of advice is to not make major financial decisions right away. "Early on, every decision is so emotionally laden."

W Connection Widow's Survival Kit