What do you do after you’ve broken up with your significant other? The ending of a long-term committed relationship can turn your whole world upside down. What are some good, healthy ways to recover once a relationship has ended?
For starters, who suffers more greatly after a breakup: men or women? Although women are often assumed to be the more emotionally sensitive of the sexes, research published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior suggests that, in fact, men may actually suffer more heartache than women when it comes to dealing with the aftermath of a failed romance. The theory is that men, who are less likely to confide in other male friends, feel more isolated after a breakup. Women, on the other hand, tend to have close friends in who they confide and turn to for support following a breakup.
In keeping with this study’s results, one of the best ways to cope with a breakup or divorce is to turn to close friends and family for support.
- Don’t go through it alone. Share your feelings—and spend plenty of time—with those closest to you. Consider joining a support group to speak with others who have been in similar situations. Isolating yourself from others is one of the worst things you can do because it will only raise your stress levels, reduce your concentration, and worsen your mental and physical health. Speak with a therapist if you feel you need extra help in moving on.
- Remember that you will move on. Although it might seem impossible at the moment, the reality is that this hurtful moment can, and will, pass. However, healing always takes time, so be patient with yourself.
- Allow yourself enough time. You’ll need time to heal and regroup, and it’s ok to take this time to do just that. Grief is a natural response to loss. Don’t fight your feelings.
- Allow yourself to fully feel the pain of your loss first before moving on.
- Avoid unhealthy ways to cope. Don’t use alcohol, drugs, or food to help you cope. Ultimately, this is destructive, and won’t make it any easier for you to recover.
- Rediscover yourself. Help yourself heal by scheduling time for activities you enjoy most, especially ones you find calming. Listen to music, read a good book, or take a yoga class.
