@Seed,
Don't take it in a personal way, Seed. Men just show their love and support in different ways. I think it's hard for men to hold hands and wipe tears away. It doesn't mean they can't feel empathy and compassion; they are just more likely to express it by fixing a woman's car or unclogging a drain. Trust me, women appreciate that and understand that it comes from the heart. Most women I know are always complaining how the men in their lives don't hug them unless prompted and most physical affection leads to the guy initiating sex - even if the woman is mourning the loss of her beloved kitty cat or grandmother. Men are just wired differently when it comes to soothing emotional wounds.
Em., I think you really need to find a social network of support. It's great when it can be family, but sometimes we have to find it elsewhere. It's a good reason to stay active socially and be outgoing. The old saying of you have to be a friend to make a friend is true.