Please note: This website is best viewed in a modern browser like Chrome, Edge or Firefox. We no longer support Internet Explorer 11.

Family and relationship difficulties

All relationships have their ups and downs. Families can be a source of happiness and security but they can also be a major cause of stress in people’s lives. Family difficulties, divorce, separation and other family changes can result in big changes in life. Some young people experience lots of different emotions when this happens such as anger, guilt and feeling abandoned. Young people may also find themselves acting out in ways they might not normally.

Our friendships and romantic relationships can also make us very happy but can also be very difficult. Sometimes relationships do come to an end. This can be a very difficult period of time and it can have a negative impact on your mental health. For other people the people close to them might treat them badly. This could be in many different ways including becoming emotionally, verbally, physically and sexually abusive.

Experiencing family and relationship difficulties can be very confusing and stressful. It is important to remember that there are lots of other people who feel and have felt like this and that there are organisations that can provide support to you.

Key Point

Every family is different. And they're made up of different people, with different needs, ideas and ways of behaving.

This can make a family a special group. But it can also mean that getting on well with each other isn't always easy.