In America, the rate of divorce is at an all-time high of fifty percent. Growing up my parents fought on the occasion but them separating seemed out of the picture. "That will never happen to my parents." When you least expect it your life will be flipped upside down and you will be forced to pick up the pieces of the remaining parts of your life!! Well, here are a few tips I have accumulated to help you during this stressful time.

1. Don't get involved

And I repeat again, do NOT get involved. No matter what, no matter how nosy you are, you will regret it. Divorce is a very personal choice and not something a couple decides when entering a marriage. Did you read what I said, "couple". Couple is two people and doesn't include you.

2. Go with the flow.

Your parents are adjusting to a new life without each other which takes time, effort, and money. The worst thing you can do as a son or daughter is get upset that nothing is working out. They are trying their best with what they got.

3. Lean on your friends and other family.

It is okay to talk about it. Your feelings are valid and the hole in your heart will soon be covered with new memories of your family and friends during the happy times. Your friends WANT to help and WANT you to feel better. They may not understand everything that is going on in your head, but at least they are trying.

4. It is okay to be upset.

Your family is changing; the small little bubble you once knew is now breaking even smaller leaving you feeling confused and worrying about what is to come. Let yourself cry, let yourself feel. It is the only way to move on.

5. Do something you love doing.

Whether it is running, listening to music, driving, just do it. Have fun and experience life. Doing what you love to do will make you forget about what is going on.

6. Don't give up on love

Just because your parents are separated does not mean you are allowed to believe that "love is dead." Two people can be so amazing for each other for a period of time but end up leaving the next. Humans come and go in our lives to teach us lessons, and even though it may suck, it is not the end of the world.

7. Finally, be happy and support for your newly separated parents

They each have been with each other for a long time and this decision probably did not come easy so help and support them. You may not agree with what they are doing, but THEY ARE TRYING. Whether it is smiling when they finally go out on a date or find a house for themselves. Be there for them when they need you the most.