Tips for men on coping with family break-up, separation or divorce
1-minute read
If your partner has initiated a separation or divorce, you may feel unprepared or powerless. It can be tough to deal with problems you can’t solve, and you might find yourself working too hard or feeling anxious and depressed. You may be worried about finances, or about caring for your children, or not seeing them enough.
Here are some coping tips for separated or divorced men.
- Look after yourself - Give yourself time to deal with the situation and continue to do the things you enjoy. Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
- Seek help early - This is very important, especially if you have ongoing negative thoughts or are depressed. Make an appointment to talk to your doctor.
- Stay in contact with family and friends - Losing your social networks can increase your risk of depression, substance abuse or suicide.
- Don't bottle things up - Talk about how you are feeling with someone you trust or call MensLine Australia on 1300 78 99 78, Relationships Australia on 1300 364 277 or beyondblue on 1300 22 4636. If you are bisexual, gay, trans or intersex, you may want to call QLife on 1800 184 527.
Helpful resources include Men and separation: navigating the future and Part-time parenting and distance parenting.
If you or someone you know is at risk of suicide, before you seek professional help, call triple zero (000) or go to your nearest hospital emergency department.
Last reviewed: December 2018
