Keeping your mates when you become a dad
Friendships slip easily after a baby — and they matter more than ever.
Tadpole Wellbeing TeamVerified expert
general information, not medical advice. if something's worrying you, speak to your GP or a qualified professional.
It's easy for mates to drift when your world shrinks to feeds and naps, but isolation is one of the things that wears dads down most. You don't need big nights out — a walk with the pram, a quick call, or meeting another dad for a coffee all count.
That's a big part of why Tadpole exists: making it easier to find other dads nearby who get it. Reaching out first is rarely as awkward as it feels.
need to talk to someone?
tadpole. isn't a crisis service. If you're struggling, these UK lines can help. Free and confidential.
- Emergencycall 999If you or someone else is in immediate danger.
- Samaritanscall 116 123Free, 24/7, for anyone in distress.
- CALMcall 0800 58 58 58Campaign Against Living Miserably — for men. 5pm–midnight daily.
- Shouttext SHOUT to 85258Free, confidential, 24/7 text support — text SHOUT to 85258.
- NHS 111call 111Urgent (non-emergency) mental health help — call and select the mental health option.