Background
David, a 45-year-old employee at a mid-sized logistics company, has recently separated from his wife after 15 years of marriage. The divorce process has been emotionally exhausting and has affected both his home and work life. David has moved into a small rented flat and is adjusting to living alone for the first time in many years. His two children, aged 12 and 15, primarily live with their mother, which has left David feeling increasingly disconnected and lonely.
At work, David has noticed a decline in his concentration, motivation, and productivity. He often finds himself distracted, fatigued, and anxious about the future. Feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to cope, he contacts the Life & Progress Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for emotional support.
The Call
EAP Counsellor (Laura)
Laura is an experienced emotional-support counsellor specialising in relationship breakdowns, family change, and adjustment stress.
Laura:
“Hello, David. Thank you for calling the EAP. My name is Laura and I’m here to support you. What’s been happening for you recently?”
David:
“Hi, Laura. I’m going through a divorce… and honestly, I’m struggling. Living alone has been a shock, and I miss my kids terribly. I feel like my whole life has been turned upside down. It’s starting to affect my work too — I can’t focus, and I’m exhausted.”
Laura:
“I’m really sorry you’re dealing with all of this, David. Divorce is a major life change, and it’s completely understandable that you’re feeling overwhelmed. You’re not alone, and it’s good that you’ve reached out today. Could you tell me a bit more about what feels hardest at the moment?”
David:
“The loneliness, I think. Going home to an empty flat feels awful, and I worry I’m not being there enough for my kids. I’m also stressed about how all this is affecting my work — I don’t want things to slip, but I feel so drained.”
Key Themes Identified
- Emotional Distress: David is experiencing sadness, loss, and a sense of instability linked to the breakdown of his marriage.
- Loneliness and Adjustment: Moving from a family home to living alone has led to increased feelings of isolation.
- Parental Concerns: He worries about the impact on his children and maintaining a strong relationship with them.
- Workplace Impact: Reduced concentration, low mood, and fatigue are starting to affect his performance and general engagement at work.
- Uncertainty About the Future: The combination of emotional and practical changes has left David feeling directionless and anxious.
Laura’s Response
Laura responds with warmth and reassurance, helping David explore ways to stabilise his emotions and regain a sense of control.
Laura:
“Everything you’re describing is a natural reaction to what you’re going through. This is a huge adjustment emotionally, practically, and socially. If you’d like, we can explore some steps to support you — both in managing the stress day-to-day and in rebuilding some structure and connection. How does that sound?”
David:
“That would really help. I’m not sure where to start.”
Laura:
“Let’s take it gently. One helpful step could be establishing a routine that prioritises connection with your children — regular calls, shared activities when you see them, or even planning small things together. Routine can provide stability for both you and them.”
David:
“Yes, I think having set times to call them would make a difference.”
Laura:
“That’s a lovely place to start. Another option you might consider is joining a divorce or men’s support group. Many people in your position find it grounding to connect with others going through similar changes.”
David:
“I hadn’t thought about that, but it might help to talk with people who understand.”
Laura:
“Absolutely. And David, just so you know, as part of your Life & Progress EAP, we can also discuss short-term counselling support if you feel talking more regularly would help you process everything. You won’t have to go through this alone.”
David:
“I’d really appreciate that. I think speaking with someone regularly could help me stay on track.”
Practical Support Offered
- Emotional Support & Validation
Laura provides a safe, non-judgmental space for David to express his concerns and emotions. - Short-Term Counselling via the EAP
David is offered structured counselling sessions to help him cope with the emotional impact of divorce. - Guidance on Maintaining Family Connection
Strategies for building consistent routines with his children to maintain closeness and emotional stability. - Support Group Recommendations
Information on local or online divorce support groups to reduce isolation. - Stress-Management Techniques
Laura introduces grounding exercises, breathing techniques, and ways to manage work-related stress during emotionally challenging periods. - Follow-Up Plan
Laura arranges a check-in call and flags David for possible counselling allocation to ensure continued support.
Outcome
By the end of the call, David reports feeling lighter and more supported. He commits to:
- Setting up a routine to stay connected with his children
- Exploring an online support group
- Engaging with short-term EAP counselling
David feels more hopeful, with a clearer sense that he has options, support, and a path forward.
Key Takeaways
- Empathy and Reassurance
The counsellor’s approach helps David feel validated and less alone during a highly emotional life change. - Structured Emotional Support
Short-term EAP counselling provides accessible professional help at a crucial time. - Focus on Family Connection
Maintaining strong ties with his children helps reinforce emotional stability and purpose. - New Routines and Coping Tools
Introducing structure and self-care strategies helps David navigate day-to-day stress more effectively. - Longer-Term Support Options
The EAP provides additional pathways (counselling, resources, support groups) to help David rebuild his emotional resilience.
L&P Copyright. E&OE, Feb26
