Men’s mental health must remain an ongoing and central consideration within the professional support systems that assist men during times of stress, major life transitions and important personal decisions. This is especially true at the end of a relationship, where significant changes to our daily lives and legal uncertainty are difficult to manage alone.

Following the breakdown of a marriage or de facto relationship, all parties involved feel the impact. Parents often feel compelled to maintain a strong presence to their children and provide stability, while property and financial issues can add further conflict and complexity.

Many men, however, often face distinct and complex mental health difficulties that are easy to overlook. The expectation to be self-reliant, resilient and to stay ‘strong’ both financially and emotionally already weigh heavily on men, and family law matters frequently bring this burden into focus and can make relationship breakdown harder to navigate.

Both statistics and society at large now recognise the lived experiences of men suffering from mental health challenges and the consequences that follow. One in four Australian males will experience a diagnosable mental health condition in their lifetimes, most commonly depression. Even more concerning is that men account for three-quarters of all suicide victims in Australia.

Men’s Mental Health During Relationship Breakdown

Research has recognised the significant effect of relationship breakdown on men’s mental health. Men who experience a break-up face an 80% increase in the risk of suicidal ideation in the months that follow. This study of 14,000 participants also revealed that this heightened risk did not vary according to age, levels of social support or alcohol use.

These findings show that the mental health challenges faced by men during relationship dissolution, separation and divorce is often significant and warrants recognition.

Seeking support from loved ones, professionals, helplines, and other services can assist to receive emotional support during times of need, which can strengthen decision-making, communication, engagement with the legal process, and the ability to advocate for their and their loved ones’ interests.

To provide clear, informed and effective client-centred advice, it is also essential that lawyers are attentive to the pressures and vulnerabilities their male clients may
be experiencing which considers both their legal and personal needs.

Impacts of Separation and Divorce on Men’s Mental Health

Aside from the social and emotional cost that comes with the end of a relationship, protracted legal disputes and proceedings create a financial strain and legal uncertainty, which makes these difficult times harder to navigate. Legal costs, the division of assets, child support, and cost of establishing a new home can compound this stress.

For this reason, it is imperative that lawyers represent clients and their concerns with care and competence. At Resolve Conflict, we combine legal expertise with careful attention to your circumstances as they unfold. No matter the current state of your relationship, we are committed to achieving resolutions that are legally sound and take into account individual circumstances.

Emotional, Financial and Legal Pressures on Separated Fathers

Loss of regular contact with children following a separation significantly exacerbates symptoms of depression, irrespective of gender. Many fathers who do not live with their child following a separation or divorce also report feeling silenced and disempowered by the legal system. Fathers may feel further concerned by the perception that the court system will unjustly rule against them in custody and child support matters. However, the paramount consideration of the Court when issuing a parenting order is if the order is in the child’s best interests (s 60CA).

Some of the factors the Court must consider include the capacity of each person to provide for the child’s needs and what arrangements would promote the child’s safety, including any views expressed by the child (s 60CC).

How we can help

If you or someone you know is struggling, you can contact any of the below helplines below for 24 hour support.

Men’s Line Australia (1300 78 99 78)

Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636). Support for Anxiety, Depression and Suicide.

Lifeline Australia (13 11 14). Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention.

If you are contemplating separation or going through divorce, get in touch with the team at Resolve Conflict. We provide a free 15-minute initial consultation to help clients understand their options during the breakdown of a relationship.