Ooft – that’s a messy one. Your feelings are totally valid, and I’m really sorry you got hurt like that. It’s normal to still have feelings for someone, even if they didn’t treat you right. But let’s be real: if they were cool keeping you in a situationship and getting a partner behind your back, that’s not just shady — it’s straight-up disrespect.
Having feelings doesn’t mean you have to forget how they treated you. You deserve honesty, respect, and someone who sees your worth from the start. Be kind to yourself while your heart figures out the best way forward. If you think they would respond to a proper heart-to-heart conversation about your future, this could be an option, but if not, it may be time to forget what could have been.
You might like to have a look at our post about relationship rights and responsibilities for a guide on some of the things you could talk about - https://respectme.org.au/relationship-rights-responsibilities/
Wow! Thank you. Seriously. That kind of message really hits, in the best way.
It’s such a privilege to do this work. We believe that all young people deserve real, honest conversations, and safe spaces to learn about respect, relationships, and who they are. If our sessions together have landed for you, that means the world to us!
Thank you for being here, asking questions, and being part of the conversation. Keep being curious, kind, and true to yourself — you’re exactly who this is all for.
I’m really sorry you’re feeling this way. Not feeling safe is a heavy thing to carry, and I’m proud of you for reaching out because you absolutely deserve support.
Whatever’s going on — at home, at school, in a relationship, or anywhere else — you don’t have to go through it alone.
There are people who care and want to help. You could start by speaking to someone you trust, like a teacher, school counsellor, youth worker, or even a friend’s parent. You don’t need to explain everything straight away — just saying, “I don’t feel safe and I need help,” is enough.
If talking in person feels too hard, you can contact Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800). They’re available 24/7, it’s free, and you can call or chat online—whatever feels right for you. And if you’re ever in danger, please call 000.
Remember, you deserve to feel safe, supported, and heard. Always.
Breaking up is never easy, especially if you still care about the person. But ending something that doesn’t feel right anymore is actually one of the most respectful things you can do. It shows you’re being honest with them and with yourself.
A lot of people try to avoid the awkward convo. They might ghost, start acting distant, or hope the other person ends it first. But dragging it out or disappearing just ends up hurting more. Being upfront — even when it’s hard — shows real maturity.
You don’t need a perfect script, either! Just be honest and kind. Something like:
“I’ve been thinking about us a lot, and I don’t feel like this relationship is right for me anymore.”
Or
“I care about you, but I don’t think this relationship is working for me.”
It’s okay to feel nervous or unsure—breakups are a big deal but choosing to be honest, even when it’s hard, doesn’t make you a bad person. It shows self-awareness, care, and respect. Honestly? That’s green flag behaviour.
Be real. Be kind... and just promise us that you won’t don’t do it over Snap.
