Latest research: Relationship breakdown and men’s mental health

22 June 2026

New research from the Australian Institute of Family Studies Ten to Men project has highlighted the significant mental health impacts that can follow relationship breakdown, particularly for men.

The long-running study, which tracks more than 20,000 Australian men, found that men who have recently experienced a separation are more likely to report suicidal thoughts, plans and attempts than those who have not. The research also highlighted the importance of recognising relationship breakdown as a key life transition when people may need additional support, as impacts can extend well beyond the immediate period following a breakup.

As an organisation, we provide extensive support to people going through separation and divorce, and welcomed the opportunity to contribute to a media release for the launch of the research. We often see clients simultaneously navigating separation alongside changes to their parenting arrangements, housing, finances and social connections. For many, relationship breakdown can be accompanied by grief, anxiety, isolation and significant emotional distress.

Our Kew Centre Senior Manager, Carolyn Last stated that ‘relationship breakdown is a significant turning point for many men and it can have ongoing implications'.

‘We often see men struggling with grief, isolation and loss of identity, especially for fathers, which can increase vulnerability to suicidal thoughts and behaviours if they don't receive help at the right time,’ Ms Last said.

In 2024–25, over 30% of clients accessing our services such as counselling and family dispute resolution (mediation) also had mental health needs, and we know how important it is for men to be able to access additional support within family and relationship services, when they need it most.

The report, too, highlights the important role relationship services have in supporting men through separation and relationship breakdown, not only immediately after separation, but also in the years that follow. As many men may not otherwise engage with mental health services, relationship services can provide a critical opportunity to identify those who may be experiencing distress and ensure they receive timely, appropriate and ongoing support.

‘Relationship services are uniquely placed to identify men at risk, and provide integrated, timely and accessible support. When men are struggling with significant life changes and navigating multiple service systems, they can be a trusted support option without men having to re-tell their stories. Ensuring these services are resourced to recognise distress, engage men effectively, and provide them with specialist, ongoing support is a critical suicide prevention measure,' Ms Last said.

This integrated approach recognises that relationship issues and mental health are often closely connected, and that support needs to be flexible, responsive and available both in the immediate aftermath of separation and in the longer term.