Description

Building a support network during divorce isn't optional – it's infrastructure. In this conversation, Carolyn talks with her close friend Gillian about the real art of asking for help: why it feels so hard, how to do it practically, and who belongs in your support team – both personally and professionally. Gillian shares her own experience navigating an unexpected separation, building a network of friends, neighbours, and professionals, and why getting a lawyer and a psychologist on board early made all the difference. Honest, warm, and grounded in lived experience.

Key takeaways:

• Asking for help feels harder than receiving it – but the people around you want to help. Give them something specific to do.
• Your executive functioning is genuinely impaired during the early stages of separation. A support network isn't self-indulgent; it's necessary.
• Start with what's close: neighbours, school parents, and anyone with proximity to your daily life can help with practical logistics.
• Your professional team matters too – a lawyer, a psychologist, and your GP each play a distinct role, and getting them in place early is worth it.
• Not all support is equal – some people will fuss unhelpfully, others will bring judgment. Know who your trusted people are, and redirect the rest.
• Even a small network can grow quickly in acute emotional times. Friendships formed during this period are often among the most enduring.
• Building your support network isn't a luxury. It's the infrastructure that carries you through.

Helpful links:

Mental Health Treatment Plans (Australia): https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/mental-health-care-and-medicare

Coping with divorce (mental health tips): https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/coping-with-divorce-or-breakup

Women's Legal Service (Qld - google for similar services in your area): https://wlsq.org.au/

Send Carolyn a text

READY FOR MORE SUPPORT?

Women's Divorce Academy offers expert divorce support and a friendly community of women who understand exactly what you're going through.

Learn more about our membership and divorce support: womensdivorceacademy.com

CONNECT WITH US:

Instagram: @womensdivorceacademy 

Facebook: Women's Divorce Academy

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:

If this episode helped you, subscribe to Divorce With Carolyn and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts - it helps other women find the show. Thank you!