Anna Maria Richards
Many people stress about telling their children that they’re getting divorced, but there aren’t enough resources to help you tell your parents. While some parents are supportive of their kids’ decisions no matter what, other mothers and fathers may not feel the same about divorce. Read on to learn some tips for telling your parents you’re getting divorced.
Give Them a Reason
While your parents don’t need to know every detail that led to your decision, giving them a few reasons is often helpful in getting them to understand your choice. Parents can sometimes react by saying, “can’t you work it out?” so it helps to give a concrete explanation of why you can’t.
Explain Your Plan
Parents tend to dislike the idea of their child getting a divorce because they think it can have an impact on your future. Come up with a plan for moving forward to help them know that you know what comes next for you and that this won’t derail your life.
Ask for Help if You Need It
Parents want to help their kids. Divorce is an incredibly taxing experience, so don’t hesitate to reach out to your mom and dad for assistance with anything. They might watch your children while you meet with an attorney or simply come over once a week so that you have company in a newly-empty home.
Don’t Waver in Your Decision
Whether you’re seeking a divorce due to irreconcilable differences or another reason, it’s never a decision you arrive at easily. Your parents love you, but they aren’t living in your situation. If you know a divorce is the right choice, don’t let them talk you out of it.
Finally, remember that you don’t need to stay in an unhappy relationship just because your parents are. Sometimes, parents who discourage divorce shouldn’t be together themselves—seeing their child experience divorce and come out happier on the other side may be the push they need to make the right choice for their lives.
Now that you know these tips for telling your parents you’re getting divorced, take a deep breath and make the call—you’ll be okay!
