Relationships

Home Life

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Having relationships with your family can provide you with support and guidance through out life.

However sometimes in life, relationships with your family members can get difficult. This can make it awkward to talk to them about things.

Remember, there are no 'perfect' families, but some seem to get along better and some experience constant conflict or stress. Here are some tips to help you get along better at home:

• Talk things through. Your family members can't read your mind no matter how well they know you. Tell them if what they do upsets you or if you don't like the way you are treated.
• Keep your parents informed. Most parents nag you because they don't know what you're up to and are worried.
• Respect each other. You may not agree with your parent's rules and beliefs just as they may not like all yours. Try to remain calm & collected instead of lashing out and they will be more likely to respect what theyhave to say.
• Respect each other's privacy. Let them know you're not hiding anything, you just need a bit of time & space to yourself sometimes.
• Family members bear the brunt of it when you are in a bad mood. Try hard not to always take it out on them and remember to do something nice for them regularly to show that you care.
• If you're feeling stressed or angry, try doing an activity that you enjoy, maybe a sport. Or practice relaxation techniques in a quiet place. Your problems probably won't go away but it'll give you a chance to distance yourself from family members.

Sometimes it's best to speak to someone outside your family - a good friend, trusted teacher, youth worker or Personal Adviser. There's more information about family relationships on the Youth Information and Connexions Direct websites.

If you are a young carer, sometimes you may need some extra support. Contact your local Young Carers Project for details on how they can make life easier for you or visit Young Carers.net to talk to other young carers.

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Page updated: Sunday, March 9, 2008 9:11 AM