TEENAGERS WHO have been affected by the break-up of their parents’ relationship have been urged to discuss their feelings rather than allow it affect their studies and social lives.
Teen Between, a support service for young people, said that with Junior and Leaving Cert exams approaching, it is most important that teenagers access the help available to them so that they keep their minds off difficulties at home and focus on fulfilling their potential.
Francesca McGuinn of Teen Between said the economic downturn was placing increased pressures on relationships and that job losses, income reductions and lack of security were causing serious difficulties for many families.
“It is our experience that adolescents are the age group most affected when parental relationships are under strain,” she said.
“That’s not surprising, given that they have external pressures to deal with, including exams, decisions about future careers and generally making the transition into adulthood.”
Teen Between, which is operated by the Marriage and Relationship Counselling Service (MCRS), provides advice and counselling for those affected by relationship difficulties.
Its website has received 20,000 hits per month since it was launched last November.
According to Ms McGuinn, many teenagers who contact the service feel they are caught in the middle of parental disputes and that many experience loyalty conflicts, or are forced to act as a messenger when their parents separate.
She said that counselling was becoming a bit more acceptable among younger people and that they were beginning to realise that seeking help did not necessarily mean there was something wrong with them.
“Many of the teenagers who contact us are very deep thinkers who come out with very profound thoughts,” Ms McGuinn said.
Those interested in contacting Teen Between should call 1800 303191, or visit teenbetween.ie
