If you’re having relationship problems, you want to be sure that separation is the correct option, especially if you have children. Decisions made too quickly or without proper help and support can have long lasting effects on everyone involved.

It is important to consider all the possible outcomes of what you are doing and what the relationship problems are before you decide that separation is the only option.

Dealing with relationship problems

There are a number of different things that need to be considered when you are re-examining your relationship. Here are a few things that you should remember:

  • A parent is forever, whether you live with your children or apart.
  • Couples with or without children can get help to have a new kind of relationship with each other.
  • Children benefit from having both parents living together.
  • Communicating well through a third party can help to lessen tension.
  • Get to the root of your problems and try to resolve them.

If you feel that you want to repair and rebuild the relationship, then why not seek professional help from organisations such as Relate.

Get professional help with Relate counselling

Relate counselling may be a good option for you if you are having relationship problems. For more information and help, visit the Relate website or call: 0300 100 1234.

You should also consider mediation as a way of helping you reach important decisions before you separate.

Relationship problems caused by alcohol or drug use

The Department for Work and Pensions has funded a project called ‘Relationship Realities’. This work has been led by the relationship research charity OnePlusOne in partnership with families, drugs and alcohol charity Adfam. The aim of this project is to find new ways to support families living with any scale of problematic drug or alcohol use.

‘Relationship Realities’ was created taking into account feedback from three of the UK’s leading addiction charities and includes stories from six families. You can access these stories and other resources to support your relationship difficulties here.

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