Breaking up from a long-term relationship can be a tumultuous and heart-wrenching experience, leaving you with a range of emotions from sadness and heartbreak to anger and confusion.
Research indicates that it takes about 11 weeks to feel better after the end of a dating relationship, according to a study published in The Journal of Positive Psychology. Meanwhile, a separate study found that it may take up to 18 months to heal if the relationship that ends is a marriage. In any case, neither situation lasts forever.
Coping with these feelings can be a real challenge, but there are many things you can do to work through them and come out stronger on the other side. The journey to healing and self-discovery after a breakup can be a transformative experience that allows you to emerge stronger, wiser, and more resilient. With the right strategies and resources, you can overcome the pain of a breakup and build a brighter and more fulfilling future. So, let’s explore some ways to cope with the emotional aftermath of a breakup and take the first step towards a happier and healthier you.
Seek professional help from a therapist or counselor to help you through this tough time
During challenging times, it is crucial to seek help from a professional who can provide expert guidance and unwavering support. A therapist or counselor can be an excellent resource for working through the obstacles you are facing, offering valuable insights and effective coping strategies. A therapist or counselor can provide confidential support and guidance to help you navigate difficult emotions and challenges. Simply discussing your emotions with someone you trust can often make a significant impact.
Take some time off to focus on yourself and your well-being
Taking time off to focus on yourself and your well-being is crucial for overcoming the emotional strain caused by a breakup. During this time, you can engage in activities that bring you joy and help you recharge, such as spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, or practicing self-care. It’s important to remember that taking time for yourself isn’t selfish – it’s an investment in your mental and physical health that can ultimately lead to greater productivity and success in the long run.
Yoga is an excellent way to heal and reconnect with your body after a long-term relationship ends. Practicing yoga can help you release emotions and tension held in your body, allowing you to process and move through the breakup in a healthy and holistic way. Additionally, by focusing on your breath and body during yoga, you can cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and self-care, which can contribute to an overall sense of well-being.
Connect with your besties and family to get emotional support
Connecting with your closest friends and family members can be an effective way to get the emotional support you need. Plan a time to talk to them on the phone or video chat regularly to stay in touch and stay up to date with each other’s lives. You can also consider organizing a virtual game night or watch party to enjoy some time together even if you can’t be in the same location.
Reaching out to trusted friends and family can provide a much-needed source of support. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help if you need it – there’s no shame in taking care of your mental health.
Practice mindfulness and meditation to calm the mind and feel more centred
Practicing mindfulness and meditation can be a helpful tool in reducing the emotional pain of a breakup. Mindfulness involves being fully present and aware of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings, without judgment, which can help to calm the mind and reduce stress. Meditation is a practice that helps to train the mind to focus and be more aware of the present moment. By regularly practicing mindfulness and meditation, you can learn to be more centred and grounded in your daily life and develop a greater sense of self-awareness, which can ultimately help you to cope with the emotional aftermath of a breakup and improve your overall well-being. With consistent practice, it can help you build inner strength and resilience, empowering you to move forward with confidence and grace.
Try something new or a start a hobby
Is there something you had wanted to try but couldn’t because you just didn’t have the time? Well, now is the perfect opportunity to revisit this – try something new or pick up a hobby to distract yourself from the pain. This might be a good opportunity to explore new interests and discover new passions. Perhaps you can take up painting, learn a new language, or start gardening. Trying new things can help you take your mind off the pain and provide a positive distraction. It can also help you develop a new skill set and broaden your horizons. So why not give it a try and see where it takes you?. A breakup might be a good opportunity to explore interests you had dropped or even new interests and discover new passions. Perhaps you can take up painting, learn a new language, or start gardening. Trying new things can help you take your mind off the pain and provide a positive distraction. It can also help you develop a new skill set and broaden your horizons. So why not give it a try and see where it takes you?
Write down how you feel in a journal or notebook
Writing down your thoughts and emotions in a journal or notebook can be a helpful tool in understanding the pain of an emotional breakup, identifying patterns in your emotions, and gaining a deeper understanding of yourself. Consider using prompts or questions to guide your writing, such as “What is causing me pain right now?” or “What triggered these emotions?” Find a quiet and comfortable space where you can focus on your feelings and let your thoughts flow onto the page without worrying about grammar or spelling. Over time, you may begin to notice changes in how you feel and gain a better understanding of how to cope with the emotional pain of the breakup.
Avoid excessive drinking or drug use to cope with the pain
While it may be tempting to turn to alcohol or drugs to cope with the pain of a breakup, it’s important to avoid excessive use of these substances when dealing with the pain of a breakup. These substances may provide temporary relief, but they can ultimately lead to more harm than good. Substance use can interfere with the healing process and prolong the emotional pain associated with a breakup. Additionally, drug and alcohol use can have negative effects on physical health and mental well-being, potentially leading to addiction and other serious consequences. Instead of turning to these harmful coping mechanisms, it is recommended to seek support from loved ones and professionals, engage in self-care practices, and allow yourself time to grieve and process emotions in a healthy way.
The journey is as Important as the destination
Going through a breakup can be a difficult experience, and moving on is a grieving process that looks different for everyone. Therefore, don’t hold yourself to any set timeframe, it’s important to give yourself time to properly grieve and work through any emotions that may arise. This can be a process that takes time, and it’s important to be patient with yourself as you navigate these feelings. There are many factors that impact your healing, including the length of time you were together, the memories and traditions you shared, especially if you had children together. But rest assured, you will get through it.
Although the journey of healing can be challenging, it offers an opportunity for growth, self-discovery, and transformation. Seeking professional help, practicing self-care, connecting with your support network, and allowing yourself time to grieve and process your emotions can help you emerge stronger, wiser, and more resilient. Be patient and stay focused on your goals. Remember that healing is a process that takes time, but with the right strategies and resources, you can overcome the pain of a breakup and build a brighter and more fulfilling future.
