Good and fulfilling relationships can greatly benefit our mental health and emotional wellbeing. Similarly, problems or changes in our relationships can have adverse effects.

Relationship breakdown, separation and divorce

After a relationship breakdown you may feel a range of powerful emotions, such as fear or uncertainty for the future, anger at your partner or yourself, sadness at the end of a phase of life, loneliness and isolation and often a sense of failure.

You wonder if you could have done anything differently, fearing that maybe the breakup was your fault. It can be difficult to adjust to your new circumstances and this can impact on your mental health.

Worrying about the impact of relationship breakdown, separation and divorce on children can add to the stress of the situation.

Despite the feelings you might have, in time things will get better. You need time to come to terms with what has happened and you may find yourself dreaming about getting back together again. The sooner you accept your relationship is truly over the sooner you can get your own life back on track.

Learning to accept that a relationship has come to an end can be difficult, but there are some things that can help:

• allowing time to get over the breakup;
• let your feelings out;
• distract yourself and keep busy with new (or old) interests, physical activity, social events, travel;
• surround yourself with close friends;
• relax;
• talk to someone about how you’re feeling;
• stop thinking about the past and start looking ahead.

There are a range of services available which provide assistance and support to those experiencing relationship breakdown, separation and divorce.

For further information or advice visit www.relateni.org

Older people

Our relationships continue to develop and will change as we grow older. You may find that your relationship with your partner changes once your children have moved or after you or your partner retire.

Similarly, your relationship with your children may change as they move away, discover themselves and explore new ideas and relationships. Relationships with your friends may alter as common interests change.

Physical disability or a reduced capacity to do things you once enjoyed can contribute to feelings of isolation or loneliness and can be very distressing.

It is important not to lose contact with friends and family - perhaps you could try finding something new that you can enjoy together. You can also get out and meet new people by joining a local club, whether it is a recreation club or a seniors' group.

It is not uncommon to experience fear of being alone in your home or of venturing out into the community. If this is a problem for you, there are a range of support services available to assist you.

For further information or advice visit www.ageuk.org.uk/northern-ireland

Parenting

For those who have children, parenthood can be rewarding, but it can also be a very challenging time.

Parents help their children develop physically, mentally and emotionally, from birth through adolescence and then into adulthood. This all takes up your time and energy, and can be difficult and emotionally and mentally draining.

The demands placed on parents can sometimes seem overwhelming. There are a range of services there for assistance and support.

For further information or advice visit www.parentingni.org or www.familylives.org.uk