Divorcing dads: why separation hits men hard - and how to help

Divorce can hit men hard – and many dads withdraw just when they need people most. For divorcing dads, that isolation isn't only painful – it can be dangerous.

Released: 17 June 2026
43 MIN
#199
Emotional journey

Divorce can hit men hard – and many dads withdraw just when they need people most. For divorcing dads, that isolation isn't only painful – it can be dangerous.

Kate is joined by psychologist Dr Eran Magen, founder of Divorcing Dads, to explore why men are so much more at risk during separation – and the simple things that help them through it.

We talk about:

  • Why divorced dads face a much higher suicide risk
  • The particular challenges separated dads face, and the part society still plays in making them harder
  • How a strong support network protects men's mental health
  • A simple way to tell friends and family what's going on - and ask for what you need

This episode is for any dad going through separation – and for anyone who wants to better support the men they care about.

Trigger warning: this episode talks about poor mental health and suicide. If you're affected by anything discussed, you can call Samaritans free on 116 123, or text SHOUT to 85258.

Meet Eran Magen

Dr. Eran Magen earned his M.A. in education and Ph.D. in psychology from Stanford University and completed post-doctoral training in child psychology and population health. He is currently an assistant clinical professor at the Yale School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry. Eran is the founder of Divorcing Dads and Parenting For Humans, both of which support parents in building strong, collaborative and joyful relationships with their children. He is also the founder of EarlyAlert, which provides early suicide prevention support for students and veterans.

You can listen to Eran on the Divorcing Dads podcast and get in touch with him on LinkedIn.

More divorce resources

Need expert help right now?

Book a free 15-minute consultation with an amicable expert for guidance on the legal, financial, emotional or co-parenting aspects of separation.

Want ongoing support as you rebuild after separation?

Join amicable space for bonus podcast episodes, exclusive webinars and articles on emotional wellbeing and an interactive community where you can share questions and get expert advice from amicable specialists. Start your free trial here.

Kate’s book amicable divorce includes dedicated chapters on navigating separation with kindness and rebuilding your identity and moving forward with confidence. Find it on Amazon today.

Got a question for a future episode?

Share your thoughts at hello@amicable.co.uk or through direct messages on Instagram.

Latest Episodes

Episode #201: You’re doing better than you think: helping children thrive through divorce
Coparenting
1 July 2026
45 MIN

You’re doing better than you think: helping children thrive through divorce

Supporting your children through separation goes so much further than one difficult conversation - but knowing how to keep showing up for them is something many parents struggle with.

#201
Episode #200: Best of: 200 episodes of The Divorce Podcast
Separation stories
24 June 2026
20 MIN

Best of: 200 episodes of The Divorce Podcast

200 episodes of honest, hopeful conversations about divorce – here are the moments that stayed with us.

#200
Episode #1: Divorce and society: changing views and overcoming stigma
The legal bit
9 May 2018
35 MIN

Divorce and society: changing views and overcoming stigma

In this episode, Kate is joined by Jeremy Gordon, Rabbi of New London Synagogue, Thomas Pascoe, Campaign Director at the Coalition for Marriage, and Isabel Russo, Head of Ceremonies at Humanists UK, to talk about divorce and society.

#1

Listen to The Divorce Podcast on your favourite platform