Pat's Answer

Welcome to Ask Pat.

Thank you for reaching out to us with your question. You have expressed your concerns about dealing with your parent’s breakup. It sounds like it is a very stressful time for you.

Every child has a right to a relationship with both parents as long as it is safe for the child to have that relationship. We understand that your concern is that your dad is texting other women, it sounds like this knowledge you have about your dad is hurting you and making you question your relationship with him. It is important for you to know that couples separate/divorce for lots of different reasons.

Regardless of why they break up it is never your fault. It would be important that you can express your feelings about these issues from home, to an adult you trust. That could be to your Mom, Dad, a teacher, doctor, guidance counsellor. You may find it useful to look at the article Divorce & Separation on Childline’s website under the ‘Info & Advice – Family Relationships’ category.

You have a right to get support around this. You also have a right to talk to an adult that you trust. This might be a family member, a teacher or a school counsellor. You might find it helpful to avail of counselling but you will need parental consent if you are under 18 years. For more information, log onto www.rainbowsireland.ie. The Rainbows programme supports children and young people affected by loss because of bereavement, separation or divorce. The service is available in local communities throughout Ireland.

You might find it helpful to talk to Childline’s 24-hour freephone service by calling 1800 66 66 66 (24 hours a day). You can also contact Childline by sending a text to 50101, or by chatting online at Childline.ie. Both of these services are available between 10am and 4am every day.

Take Care,
Pat.