Family separation is when your parents decide to separate or divorce. This could be a long process, happening over a number of years, or it could happen suddenly. It can be really confusing time and you might feel a whole lot of different emotions. You might feel angry at the person who has decided to leave, or upset or even relieved that your family is changing. It’s important to remember to look after yourself during what can be a pretty tough time. There will probably be lots of changes in your life. You might have to move between houses, and get used to spending time with your parents separately. Remember that this I not your fault, you shouldn’t blame yourself for the problems your parents are having and know that it doesn’t change the way your parents feel about you. Check out more info on family separation from Reachout and Kids Helpline and in this Guide for Teens.
You are not alone, around 11,000 teenagers are affected by family separation every year.
You are entitled to legal and basic human rights, that means you always have a right to:
If one of your parents is violent you do not have to live with them, you can call 1800 RESPECT for help and support. Visit Lawstuff for more info on your legal rights or send them a Lawmail for legal advice.
Try to talk to your parents about what’s going on. Ask them why they are separating and explain how you are feeling about it. This might make you feel better, but if your parents are struggling to deal with the separation themselves they might find it hard to listen to and support you. If this is the case try talking to someone else, like a friend, teacher or school counsellor. They will be able to support you without taking sides. If you don’t know who to talk to you could call Kids Helpline and speak to one of their counsellors. Just talking to someone about how you are feeling might make you feel a whole lot better.
Usually your parents will try together to work out your living arrangements, whether you will live with one parent or move between their houses. If your parents can’t agree they may ask the family court to make a decision for them. If this happens the judge will try to make a decision that is best for you. Have a look at Lawstuff’s post on family separation, it explains the whole process of deciding who you are going to live with. If you need legal advice you can send them a Lawmail. If you are anxious about going to family court, or family separation in general talk to an adult you trust about it, or call Kids Helpline.
