PARENT BLOG: How to Help Your Teen or College Student Survive a Breakup

When Your Teen or College Student Goes Through a Breakup — How to Support Them Without Overstepping

Breakups at any age are painful, but for teens and young adults, they can feel world-ending.

Your calm presence matters more than perfect words.

Say things like: • “I know this hurts so much.”

• “Your feelings make sense.”

• “I’m here — you’re not alone.”

Avoid:

✖ “You’re young, you’ll get over it.”

✖ “They weren’t right for you anyway.”

✖ “Other people have it worse.”

Breakups disrupt:

• Sleep

• Appetite

• Concentration

• Social energy

Help them keep routines, even small ones.

Offer:

• rides

• space

• quiet companionship

• small comforts

Don’t:

✖ force them to talk

✖ stalk the ex’s social media

✖ escalate drama

Suggest (not demand):

• unfollow/mute if it’s painful

• taking a break from contact

• spending time with supportive friends

Gently remind them that therapy is not a punishment — it’s support.

What does my teen/young adult need from me right now: listening, structure, comfort, or gentle redirection?

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