Breaking up: the basics
Thursday 1 January 2004
People break up for lots of different reasons. Sometimes couples realise that they're not suited to each other or they have grown apart. Everyone has different reasons for splitting up, but it's likely that someone in the relationship will be upset.
Getting through a break up
The feelings we experience might differ depending on who broke up with whom, but these can include:
- Confusion
- Sadness or depression
- Stress
- Anger
- Guilt
- Low self-esteem
Breaking up is difficult for everyone, but it's important to remember it's not the end of the world!
If you break up with someone, try talking things through with your friends or even someone you trust in your family. For more information on breaking up, check out our list of recommended web site links.
Divorce
Breaking up with someone can be difficult, but if a couple have children (this change needs to be made because couples who live together may also have children and the same advice applies to them), things can go to a whole new level because a whole family can be affected.
Parents get divorced for lots of different reasons. It could be because they have realised they no longer make each other happy or that they both want to live their lives differently.
When that happens, the children of the family can worry that they might have been responsible or could have helped keep them together. But this is not the case and it's not your fault. Your parents are divorcing each other, not you, and there is normally very little you can do to change that.
If your parents are splitting up, try to sit down and talk about things with your parents. You shouldn't have to choose between your parents, so tell them that you don't want to. Ask them what's going on and ask not to be left out.
If your parents split up, try to remember that it's not the end of the world. You'll always still be able to see your mum or dad. Even if your parents don't always get on, there's absolutely no reason why you can't go out and have a laugh with them.
Although your parents are splitting up, it's important to try and keep your life as normal as possible. Keep doing things like playing sports and exercise, and keep seeing your friends.
If you're finding it difficult to cope at school, college or work, try explaining the situation to your teacher, lecturer or your employer.
To find out more about more happens during the divorce process, click on our list of recommended links.
