The loneliness thing is real

Dec 5·1 min read

I have friends but none of them are dads yet and I feel like I can't relate to them anymore. They're still doing the whole 'let's party on weekends' thing and I'm exhausted just thinking about it. My wife has her mom groups but I don't really have equivalent. I love my kids but sometimes I feel like I'm doing this in a vacuum. Do you guys have dad friends? How did you make them? The playground mom groups feel awkward when I show up solo.

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Comments(7)

DDerek P.Regularjust now

The parties thing is rough because you WANT to care about that stuff still but your brain is just too tired to process it anymore. That's not a loss though—that's growth.

TTodd N.Regularjust now

Hit up DadSquad or find local dad groups on Facebook. They exist and honestly most dads are desperate for actual friendships with people who aren't screaming at them.

GGary R.Regular13h ago

Is your wife doing anything that involves dad partners? Like if she's in a mom group, sometimes there are couples events or you could suggest couple hangouts with people in similar life stage?

CChris T.Regularjust now

I joined a dad group when my oldest was 2 and it genuinely saved my mental health. Just being around guys who understand why you can't stay up past 10pm anymore is huge.

WWill T.Regularjust now

Have you checked if there are dad-specific groups in your area? Some communities have them—way less "mommy and me" energy and more guys who actually get it.

MMatt S.Regular1h ago

This hits hard. The friend group fragmentation is real once you have kids. They're still living in 2015 mentally.

SSam F.New Dadjust now

You could try starting something or joining a dad group through a local rec center or church. Even just one or two other dads who are in the same boat helps so much.