Family problems can seem overwhelming. If you or a friend are dealing with separation, divorce, alcoholic, abused or abusive parents, or another family conflict, this is a place to learn more about ways to cope.
Every family has problems once in awhile. But sometimes family conflict becomes too much. Often, this is because of trouble understanding each other, changing expectations as you grow older or lack of trust among family members. It might also be because your parents see things differently from you since they are from a different generation, and maybe also raised in a different country.
When conflicts happen you might find yourself changing your behaviour or reacting differently than usual. This is one way of showing your family that you dislike a situation. It may even make you feel like you have more control over the situation. But in the end, your reactions might confuse your family and distract them from the real problems. Try having a straight-forward talk with your family about how you are feeling.
For example, if you rebel against your overprotective parents by staying out late on a Saturday night, they will get upset and ground you. Instead, if you talked to them about why you want to go out, where you are going, who you’ll be with and how they can reach you, they may learn to trust you to stay out later.
Sometimes talking to your family is too difficult. Some family problems can sometimes put you in a very upsetting or even dangerous situation. Talk to an adult you trust like a teacher, mentor, friend’s parent or school counsellor about your family issues.