Talking about what you feel

Children whose parents have separated can have fun and be happy like other children whose parents are together. But sometimes they have feelings that are not happy but they don't know what to do with them. Sometimes they don't talk to their parents about how they feel because it is difficult to talk when their parents are fighting, sad or angry.

See what other children did:

My parents were glad I told them how I feel. They really didn't know. I feel much better now.

I went to see the school Counsellor. That was so nice and made me feel much better. And in the end we asked my parents to come and we all talked together.

I talked to my grandma. She has always listened to me and she understood my feelings very well.

When I didn't have anyone to talk to I just talked to my teddy bear. It's just good to let it out. Sometimes you don't need an answer.

After talking to my best friend I felt much better. Her parents separated too so she knew exactly how I felt and she told me how it was for her when her parents broke up. And she was glad I could be honest with her.

My brothers and sisters are going through the same as me. When we don't feel like talking to our parents we just talk to each other and make each other feel better. That's nice.

Children whose parents don't live together any more often wish their parents would get back together. It can make children very sad when that wish doesn't come true. Other wishes children have can come true.

If children don't talk to anyone about their wishes and feelings no one will know about them. That is why it is important that children talk about what they want to happen and how they are feeling. For some children it can be a positive experience to share their feelings with someone else.

This is what it was like for some other children when they shared their feelings with someone else:

It's a bit like an air balloon - when you blow up the balloon it gets bigger and bigger until it explodes. And because you don't want it to explode, it's good to let some air out from time to time. Imagine what would happen to you if you kept all the feelings to yourself!

Talking about how you feel can be very helpful for you and your family. Even if it's difficult and something you have never done before you can do it! I am sure your parents would like to know what's going on with you. If you don't want to talk to your parents there are many other people who can help you. Try to spend some time with other grown-ups you like and trust. Or you can hang out with friends or your brothers and sisters. That can help you feel less lonely.


	Just click here and you will find some fun things to do that might help you.