Dear Jellybean,
My parents are splitting up and now they are going their separate ways. I want to stay with my mom. So, we are going to Columbus, GA and getting an apartment. My sisters haven't told me who they're going to be staying with yet. If they do choose my mom I want to help my mom in anyway possible. I had heard from a friend that she's getting her workers permit at age of 14 in a half. I am going to be 14 August 18th. I thought about getting my workers permit to help my mom with bills and food and all that but...I am wondering if it's going to be a bad idea because of school and probably watching my sisters. I also have no idea how to get one or where to work or if I even do get a workers permit. Hope you can respond. Thank you.
Yours truly,
Jessica
Dear Jessica,
I'm so sorry to hear about your parents' divorce. That's rough. But don't make things rougher on yourself by taking on adult responsibilities. No matter how grown-up you feel, at fourteen you're (at least technically) still a kid - and shouldn't have to take on the weight of supporting your family.
Give your mom credit for knowing how to take care of your basic needs. Your job now is to take care of yourself. Dealing with the emotional issues caused by divorce can be a job and a half. Add school and social issues, plus throw in a move to a whole new city, and most teens might end up feeling overwhelmed. Read the article about divorce on this page of Myjellybean.com, for tips on dealing with your parents' divorce, and a link to telephone hotlines where you can get free and confidential support for what you are going through.
You can still be a support to your mom. Funnily enough, probably the best way to make her feel good right now, is to confide in her abour your feelings - both negative and positive. She needs to know how you're doing, and will feel happier if she knows you trust her enough to let her see your pain. Nobody expects you to be strong and silent about all this. A few good cries with your mom can bring you closer, and let her know you trust her and love her.
