What Happens After Parents Split Up?

If your parents have separated, this can impact your family massively. What your family unit once looked like to you may look slightly different now, and this can be really hard to get used to.

With separation will come change, and it’s this change you may not want or expect. But sometimes, having some information and guidance on what changes may occur can put your worries at ease.

1.Changes to your living arrangements:

After separation, your parents may need to make changes to your living arrangements which can affect your routines, sense of security and your social life with friends. Parents are encouraged to discuss these changes openly and honestly with you, it is important you discuss any concerns you have about these changes with your parents, so that you all can be on the same page.

2. Changes in Relationships

Sometimes when parents separate, they may start a new relationship or changes may occur to previous relationships with other family members. You may need to adjust to these changes in relationships, which can include the introduction of step-siblings, step-parents or the addition of new family members.

3. Finding ways to cope

Going through changes can be stressful, difficult and challenging at times. You may feel:

Angry at your parents
Miss how things used to be
Have had to change schools or move
Travel between houses
Frustrated about change

There are many ways to deal with the things that you are feeling. This can include:

Talking about it – share how your feeling with someone that you care about. This could be a friend, someone you trust or a teacher at school.
Do things you enjoy – make time to do the things you enjoy whether that’s a hobby or socialising with friends. This can help reduce the feeling of stress.
Give it time – when your parents first separate it can feel like things will never get better. However, your feelings may change over time.

4. It is not your fault

Parents separating or getting a divorce is never your fault. There’s no single reason for breakups; your parents might have grown apart or changed over time. However, the feelings between parents and you shouldn’t change. During difficult times, remember that whatever happens to you and your family is not your fault.