Coping emotionally after separation in Scotland

Separation is hard, and your own wellbeing matters too. In Scotland, Breathing Space is a free, confidential phone service on 0800 83 85 87 for anyone feeling low, anxious or down.

Relationships Scotland offers counselling to work through the end of a relationship, One Parent Families Scotland supports single parents, and Childline is there for children. You don't have to cope alone.

In Scotland you can reach free, confidential support by phone without going through your GP first. Whether you want someone to listen this evening or a steadier course of support over several weeks, there is a service built for it, and every number below is free to call. Plenty of the people who ring are parents in exactly your position.

• Breathing Space is a free and confidential phone service for anyone in Scotland over 16 who is feeling low, depressed or anxious; phone 0800 83 85 87, 6pm to 2am on weekdays and 24 hours at the weekend, from 6pm Friday to 6am Monday (nhsinform.scot).
• Living Life at NHS 24 offers free telephone and online support using cognitive behavioural therapy based techniques for anyone in Scotland aged 16 and over; you can refer yourself for an assessment by phoning 0800 328 9655, Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm (nhsinform.scot).
• If you need urgent mental health support, phone 111 and choose the mental health option; you will be connected to the Mental Health Hub, which is open to people of all ages, to speak with specially trained practitioners (nhsinform.scot).

Checked August 2026 against nhsinform.scot.

Strong feelings after a separation are normal, and they usually ease with time and support. Looking after yourself helps you look after your children.

• Talking to someone, a helpline, a counsellor, or a trusted friend, helps more than coping alone.
• Keeping routines steady gives children a sense of security.
• Be patient with yourself; there is no set timeline for feeling better.

If you ever feel unable to cope or have thoughts of harming yourself, contact your GP or a crisis line straight away.