Gain a little perspective
The first thing to do is to take a look at your life and the situation you are in, because everyone is different. The past can be painful, but we have to overcome the pain if we want a brighter future. You may be searching for guidance from the other half, or just want to explore your options as far as living situations. Dwelling on how or why things happened the way they did won’t help. So, look ahead. What can you do now? Well, more than you might think.

Show your support
If you can get beyond the past then you are already steps ahead of many other people in your same situation. Realize that your parent is working very hard, and it isn’t easy for them. Let them know you appreciate what they do for you. Help your parent out around the house with chores. Often, in a single parent household, the duties of the missing parent are divided among the kids and the remaining parent. Help them out, and they will help you out. Make life easier for them, and they will do the same for you. 

Remain Optimistic
Secondly, have an optimistic outlook for the future. Think in terms of the glass being half full. You have a parent that loves you very much. If you have the chance to interact with your other parent, find ways of enjoying your time together.

Open the lines of communication
Remember that you are not alone!  Millions of other teens are in the same situation you are in. Talk to you cousins or uncles and aunts, or siblings if you have them. Talk to your friends. Share your feelings, and you will be a role model for your parent. Trying to deal with things on your own is sometimes a good idea, but not in this case. Don’t try to take on the world all by yourself, because you will never win. Use your resources, and you can make your life much better!