Separation and divorce

When a family goes through a separation or divorce, there’s often a lot of difficult stuff to deal with at home, including a range of emotions.

If this has happened to you, you might be dealing with what’s going on between your parents as well as other changes such as having to be at a different house, eating different food, or getting used to new family members. These are all major things that take time to get used to and make a big difference to how you feel and cope with what’s going on around you.

If your parents separate, it’s important to understand that whatever you’re feeling is normal and okay. Most people also find their emotions change from day to day or moment to moment, and they cope with them in different ways.

Some things that help include:

• talking to someone you trust
• crying—sometimes it can help you feel better and release emotions
• laughing—watching a funny movie or joking with friends
• getting outside—going for a walk or bike ride
• spending time with friends
• writing in a journal
• spending time doing things you enjoy—going to the movies, reading, sports
• doing something creative such as drawing, singing and dancing.

Where to get help

• Beyond Blue Support Service
  Talk – 1300 22 4636
  Chat
  Email
• Kids Helpline
  Talk – 1800 55 1800
  Chat
  Email
• Lifeline
  Talk – 13 11 14
  Chat

More information

• Coping with holiday hassles
• Getting along with family
• Grief and loss
• Family relationships and care
• Sadness and depression