families

You can’t choose your family, and while some of us have a great time at home, for others it can be more difficult. It’s important to remember that family life should not involve violence or abuse, and if it does, you should seek help.

Some of us get on with our family really well, whilst others find it more difficult. We may have lots of arguments with an older sister or a younger brother of an over protective mother or a step father that tries too hard.

The fact is most of us experience arguments or disagreements with our family. If the arguments are getting you down, sit down with your family and disuss how you feel; the chances are they are feeling the same way and you can work out how best to deal with the conflict.

If it is so bad that you are thinking of running away, you should definitely speak to someone about how you are feeling. If you are unsure of where to turn, as a first step its worth checking out the Missing Persons website – its got some great material for people who are thinking of running away.

Lots of us worry that our parents are splitting up, and in some cases they do. Check out www.itsnotyourfault.org for practical information about what to do. Another great site is www.divorceaid.co.uk which has good material for children and teenagers.