WHY MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT IS NOT OPTIONAL WHEN YOU’RE GOING THROUGH FAMILY COURT
- Falsely Accused Network
- Feb 2
- 3 min read
Written by Michael Thompson, Founder of the Falsely Accused Network
At the Falsely Accused Network, we support people every day who are going through one of the most traumatic experiences imaginable: false allegations, separation from their children, and a long, exhausting Family Court process.
One thing is consistently overlooked — and it is absolutely crucial:
Mental health support during Family Court is not optional. It is essential.
THE REALITY OF FALSE ALLEGATIONS AND FAMILY COURT
Family Court isn’t just about legal documents and hearings. It’s emotional. It’s psychological. And it often feels utterly isolating.
People we support regularly experience:
- False allegations that attack their character and identity
- Prolonged periods without seeing their children
- Fear, uncertainty, and a pervasive lack of control
- Sleepless nights, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion
For many men in particular — who make up the majority of the people we help — talking about mental health does not come naturally. There is often a belief that you should just “cope”, “stay strong”, or “get through it”.
But false allegations and drawn-out court proceedings don’t just test resilience — they erode it.
THIS IS TRAUMA — WHETHER PEOPLE NAME IT OR NOT
Being falsely accused changes how you see yourself.
It changes the way others see you.
And it changes how safe the world feels.
Even when you know the allegations are untrue, the system moves slowly. During that time, reputations suffer, relationships break down, and many people begin to withdraw emotionally just to survive.
That emotional shutdown may feel protective — but left unaddressed, it causes long-term harm.
MY OWN EXPERIENCE: WHY MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT MATTERS
When I went through Family Court myself, I made the decision to engage in counselling alongside the legal process.
Like many men, this wasn’t something I was naturally comfortable with. But I can say this with complete honesty:
Counselling was one of the most beneficial decisions I made during that period.
It gave me:
- A safe, confidential space to speak honestly
- Tools to manage anger, fear, and stress
- Perspective when everything felt overwhelming
- Emotional stability during hearings and key decisions
It didn’t change the facts of the case — but it helped me stay grounded, clear-headed, and mentally strong enough to get through it.
That is why we always stress the importance of mental health support at the Falsely Accused Network.
MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT HELPS YOUR COURT PROCESS TOO
Many people don’t realise this.
When you are supported mentally, you are more likely to:
- Communicate clearly and calmly
- Regulate your emotions under pressure
- Avoid reactions that can be misinterpreted
- Make better, more measured decisions
- Present as stable, reflective, and credible
Judges don’t expect perfection — but they do notice emotional regulation, insight, and consistency.
That can make a real difference.
WALK THE WALK CIC – SUPPORT THAT UNDERSTANDS
One organisation we regularly recommend is Walk the Walk CIC.
They provide accessible, non-judgemental mental health support for people going through distressing life experiences, including:
- Family breakdown
- Court proceedings
- Emotional overwhelm
- Identity loss
Their approach is practical, compassionate, and human — meeting people where they are, without stigma or pressure.
You can find their mental health support services here:
YOU DON’T HAVE TO DO THIS ALONE
Family Court — especially when false allegations are involved — takes a heavy toll.
Seeking mental health support is not:
- A weakness
- An admission of guilt
- A failure
It is a responsible step towards protecting yourself, your children, and your future.
At the Falsely Accused Network, we always encourage people to combine:
- Appropriate legal guidance
- Emotional and mental health support
- Honest conversations — even when they’re hard
Because getting through Family Court isn’t just about the outcome.
It’s about being well enough to live your life afterwards.
CONTACT THE FALSELY ACCUSED NETWORK
If you need support, guidance, or signposting:
Falsely Accused Network
Website: www.falselyaccusednetwork.co.uk
Telephone: 0204 538 8788
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FalselyAccusedNet
We support people across England and Wales only.
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