Tips For Teens Dealing With Divorce

When a marriage ends in divorce, it’s hard enough for the spouses to cope. If there are children involved, they have to find ways to deal with the aftermath as well.

This can be difficult, depending on the ages of the children. Babies and toddlers may deal with divorce better than teens and adult children. Teens especially have it rough as they deal with puberty and the pressures of high school on top of their parents splitting.

Their routines change. They have to learn to deal with a new normal, which may include two homes, new holiday celebrations, new schools, and maybe even new friends.

Many teens are in denial, thinking that they won’t be affected by their parents’ divorce. The truth is that everyone will be affected in some way. As a parent, here are some things you can do to help your teen deal with your divorce.

Don’t Use Kids as Pawns

Kids should not be used as messengers. If you need to say something to your ex-spouse, do it yourself. Don’t use your kids as go-betweens. Otherwise, they will feel trapped in the middle, which will make them even more stressed out.

Help Your Teen Process the Divorce

A divorce ends a marriage. It breaks up a home. It’s not an easy thing for anyone to go through. As a parent, you need to understand that your teen will be going through. They may experience a variety of emotions such as anger, confusion, anxiety, irritability, and guilt. Be there for your child and help them talk through their emotions.

Keep Your Child Physically Active

Exercise and physical activity can help ward off feelings of depression. Sports such as running, basketball, boxing, and soccer can serve as outlets for teens. Physical activity will help them feel better and keep them healthy as they navigate through the divorce.

Have Them Talk it Out

Your kids likely know others who have gone through a divorce. Have them talk to friends, neighbors, and family members who have also dealt with the effects of divorce. Their friends will likely have good advice for them. These people can also provide your teens with coping mechanisms so that they feel more confident that they can effectively cope with the divorce.

Seek Professional Help

If your teen is still having trouble dealing with their emotions from the divorce, it may be a good idea to seek professional help. A counselor can help your teen deal with their negative feelings and assure them that they are not to blame for the divorce.

Contact a Maryland Family Law Attorney Today

When a divorce happens, everyone is affected, from the spouses to the children to friends and family members. Teens especially have problems with divorce as they deal with puberty, school, friends, and other everyday issues.

A Columbia divorce lawyer from The Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, P.A. can help you deal with the effects of divorce. To schedule a consultation, call (410) 774-5987 or fill out the online form.

Source:

moms.com/teen-tips-for-dealing-with-parents-divorce/