What can you do? (continued)
Offer reassurance and support
Your children need reassurance now more than ever. Children need to hear, over and over, that you love them unconditionally.
As children can make assumptions about the family separation, it’s also important to reassure them that that the separation was not their fault.
Protect children from witnessing arguments between you and the other parent
It is essential that you protect your children from witnessing arguments between you and your child’s other parent. If you are experiencing strong feelings about the separation, it can be good to find support by speaking to a trusted friend, family member or speaking with a counsellor. This can help you work through and process your feelings away from your children.
Professional Help
Sometimes the emotions that come with separation can feel too overwhelming to deal with on your own, for yourself or your child.
It is time to seek professional help when:
- Your child’s distress becomes constant and chronic.
- Your child’s symptoms get worse rather than better over time.
- You feel overwhelmed of unable to cope with your child.
