Find a Mental Health Professional for Men's Life Transitions & Isolation

About Men's Life Transitions & Isolation support

Men are more likely than women to experience social isolation, particularly following major life transitions such as retirement, separation or divorce, job loss, or becoming an empty nester. Social networks that were built around roles, such as workmates, team sport, or being a partner or parent in a particular way, can dissolve quickly when those roles change. Many men report having few if any close friendships where they feel they can be honest about how they are really going. Counselling and therapy for men navigating life transitions and isolation helps them process the emotional dimensions of change, reconnect with a sense of purpose, and build or rebuild genuine connection. Practical skills for initiating and sustaining friendships are also a legitimate part of therapy. Peer support and community programs that bring men together around shared activities can complement individual support. In Australia, Men's Sheds offer community connection around practical activity and are available in hundreds of communities. Beyond Blue's resources for men include support for isolation and life transitions. GPs can refer men to psychologists through Medicare's Better Access initiative, and many practitioners work with men on these concerns in private practice.