Parent’s divorce can be very hard, even if you are not a child or a teen. It may seem like your life doesn’t make sense to you and nothing can be done to help you feel better. You may feel frustrated, angry, stressed out, or sad.
You may feel relieved, especially if there’s been lots of fighting or tension at home. But don’t let this rule your life! Check out a few ways to cope with your parent’s divorce.
1. It’s not your fault
One of the most important things you should realize is that your parent’s divorce is not your fault. If they were really unhappy in their marriage, divorce would have been the best option for them.
Don’t blame yourself! You didn’t force your parents to make this decision. Realize that they made it themselves!
2. It’s not the end of the world
You may feel like everything is falling apart, but it’s life, and your parent’s divorce is not the end of the world. You need to take a step back and have a look from an outsider’s point of view.
Write down a list of the reasons why this should happen and the reasons why it should not happen. It will be easier for you to understand that your parent’s relationship has really ended.
3. Be ready for you and your siblings to be split
If you have a younger or older brother or sister and if he/she goes to live with your dad and you with your mom, be sure to keep in touch all the time. When you have someone who relates to what you’re going through and who knows how you feel, it’s easier to cope with your parent’s divorce. Don’t let it drive you apart, visit your siblings as often as possible.
4. Talk to your parents openly and honestly
If you want to talk to your parents, sit down together and have an open and honest talk about their divorce. Tell them how you feel and explain why you think it’s a big mistake.
Let your parents give you the reasons for why. Maybe their marriage wasn’t just working out. It’s important that you tell your parents if you have any concerns.
5. Remember you have your own life
No matter what they decide, remember you have your own life. Nobody can take away your feelings. You’re your own person and you’re perfect the way you’re.
Don’t let your parents influence you negatively. If they cannot accept you for you, don’t feel frustrated. You are beautiful, wonderful, and amazing, and your parents know that they’re just having a hard time dealing with the changes.
6. Don’t allow one parent to put down the other
If one parent hurts the other parent and it really hurts you, quietly take them aside and tell them how it makes you feel. Let your parents know that they have to wait until you’re out of the room.
Don’t feel you have to choose sides, try to be neutral. Give more importance to yourself. Just because your parents are divorced doesn’t mean you can’t hang out with your friends!
Do you have any tips for dealing with parents’ divorce? Share your thoughts, please!
