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My parents have divorced

When your parents split up you are likely to have a range of feelings like grief, anger, guilt, sadness or depression. This is normal and there is support available to help.

What might help?

• Talking to other people, especially if they have gone through a similar experience.
• Having as much contact with both parents as you want and talking to them about how you feel.
• Remembering that this is about your parents’ relationship with each other and it does not in any way affect the way they feel about you.
• Speaking to a Talksafe Counsellor or Peer Mentor.

My family is changing, how do I cope?

When your parents split up they might find new partners who have children of their own. You might be finding this difficult especially if you are sharing a house with them. It’s bound to feel strange at first, but hang on in there. Take it one step at a time and slowly you’ll get to know your new family members.

Having your own space is important so find time and space for yourself and try to talk about what’s going on, both to your family and to people outside the situation.

Links:

Divorce Aid: Teenagers

Teen Issues: Dealing with Divorce and Separation

ChildLine: Divorce and separation

Last review: 27/05/11 - Next review: 27/05/13