For Teenagers

About living in families

Families can offer love, care, support, encouragement, understanding and other good things. They can also be stressful, full of misunderstandings and miscommunications, and for some young people may even be miserable or frightening. There are so many different kinds of families, and while some families get along easily, some of us find living together difficult at times.

Click on the links below to find information and services that might help:

• Dealing with arguments and problems
• Looking after yourself
• Violence and safety

My parents have split up - what now?

It's tough to have your parents split up when you're a teenager. You are likely to need lots of information and support at this time, especially with all the other changes going on in your life. Who you live with and whether you will stay at your school and near your friends, will be important to you, and there will also be stresses on you and your family. Some young people feel angry, sad, relieved or all of these at once when their parents split up. It's okay to ask for help and to talk about what’s going on for you.

All parents have to make agreements and arrangements for the care and wellbeing of their children after separation. Wherever possible both of your parents will equally share the parenting, provided the children in the family are safe. Some parents can talk together and sort things out for themselves, while others need help to set up their parenting arrangements. It may not be possible for your parents to share parenting time equally, with all the different arrangements affecting things like work, home and school.

Click on the links below to find more information and services that might help:

• Managing your feelings
• Coping with changes at home and school
• What does the law say?

For more information search Family Relationships Online or call the Family Relationships Advice Line on 1800 050 321.

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