It's never easy to see you parents struggle with their relationship as a couple. Their earlier experiences together, their personal beliefs and value system, and the way they see themselves weathering difficulties are factors that influence the way they relate to each other as they deal with aging, illness, and other difficulties life might throw their way.

Even if your parents' problems don’t concern you, you will still be affected by these circumstances. A rift between parents can give great distress to their children, no matter their age. You can't fix your parents' problems, but you can do something to help them solve their dilemma. Here are seven tips to help you cope with your parents' struggles.

(First published as “Parental Guidance" in the "Good Family" section of Good Housekeeping Philippines' September 2011 issue. Adapted for use in Female Network. Additional Reporting by Marianne Salazar. Photo by Marcel Oosterwijk via Flickr Creative Commons)