Legal insights from Zharna Sutaria, (Head of Family Law, Vyman Solicitors) with psychological perspectives from Lisa Spitz (Counsellor & Psychotherapist)

Mental Health Awareness Week (12th to 18th May) is a timely reminder that what we don’t see can matter just as much as what we do – especially during life transitions like divorce.

While emotional strain affects everyone, this piece focuses on men’s mental health, where societal silence and stigma can often make things harder.

At Vyman Solicitors, we frequently support male clients who are navigating high-stakes separations – many of them successful, capable and outwardly composed. But behind that, there’s often an emotional weight that’s quietly carried.

For these men, divorce isn’t just a legal event – it can feel like a loss of identity, routine, and control. And while issues like finance and parenting take centre stage, the emotional impact often goes unspoken.

Zharna Sutaria, Head of Family Law at Vyman Solicitors, shares:

“Family law isn’t just about legal frameworks. We often see clients who are holding emotional pain quietly. They’re trying to keep it together, but inside they may feel lost, anxious or ashamed. It’s something we need to speak about openly.”

The Unseen Cost of Relationship Breakdown

According to the Office for National Statistics, suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50 in the UK, with a rate of 17.2 deaths per 100,000. While divorce alone doesn’t cause mental illness, it can be a powerful trigger – particularly when combined with silence and stigma.

Lisa Spitz, a psychotherapist and counsellor in private practice, explains:

“For many men, the end of a marriage isn’t just the loss of a partner – it’s the loss of identity, routine, and a future they once envisioned. It can feel like they’re failing at life – and that shame is incredibly hard to express.”

Rather than grieve openly, many men turn to coping mechanisms – alcohol, overworking, or jumping quickly into new relationships. As Lisa notes:

“They’ve often never been encouraged to sit with their emotions. Instead, they stay in action. But the pain doesn’t disappear – it just goes underground.”

Why Mental Health Matters in Legal Strategy

At Vyman Solicitors, we understand that emotional wellbeing directly affects legal clarity. A client overwhelmed by stress may struggle to make decisions, evaluate risk, or prioritise what matters most.

Zharna says:

“Sometimes, the most important thing we can do is pause. We guide clients through the legal process, but we also recognise when they might need emotional support. Working with professionals like Lisa ensures our clients are not just legally protected – but emotionally supported too.”

A More Human Approach to Divorce

Lisa and Zharna agree: healing starts when we stop expecting men to be invulnerable.

“What many men need isn’t just legal advice – it’s permission to feel,” says Lisa. “When lawyers and therapists work together, we reduce conflict, increase understanding, and ultimately achieve better outcomes – both personally and legally.”

If you’re going through a separation and feel like you’re carrying it all alone, you’re not.

At Vyman Solicitors, we’re here to guide you with clarity, discretion, and care. And where needed, we work closely with expert counsellors to ensure you get the holistic support you deserve.

Speak to our Family Law team in confidence:
info@vyman.co.uk | 020 8427 9080

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About Vyman Solicitors

Located in North West London, Vyman Solicitors provides a comprehensive range of legal services, including Corporate & Commercial Property Law, Litigation, Residential and Conveyancing Law, Family Law, Private Client and Immigration. Known for its commitment to personalised client support and legal excellence, Vyman is a trusted partner for businesses and individuals alike.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.