Heartbreak is one of life’s most profound emotional challenges. It makes you sick to your stomach, a gut wrenching feeling in the world. When a relationship ends, it can feel as though the ground beneath you has shifted, leaving a void where love, connection, and companionship once resided. While it’s natural to experience grief, sadness, and confusion after a breakup, there are steps that can help you heal. Believe me, I have been here and it is no joke.

Photo Credit: Evergreen Psychotherapy Center

1. Allow Yourself to Grieve

The end of a relationship is a loss, and it’s important to acknowledge and honor your emotions. Suppressing feelings of sadness, anger, or disappointment can prolong the healing process. Give yourself permission to cry, journal, or talk about your pain with trusted friends or a therapist. Grieving is a crucial step toward letting go. Writing in a journal definitely helps a lot in my personal opinion. No matter what I am dealing with. I suggest setting a timer and just free writing whatever comes to your mind! Your journal will not judge you or lecture you. Feel your emotions.

2. Create Space for Yourself

After a breakup, it’s tempting to stay connected with your ex through social media or mutual friends. However, maintaining distance can help you heal. Consider:

• Unfollow your ex on social media to avoid constant reminders.
• Taking a break from mutual activities that might bring up difficult emotions.
• Setting boundaries if your ex reaches out.

Creating space allows you to focus on your own well-being and prevents the cycle of reopening emotional wounds. No one likes putting salt on a wound or having your skin keep opening up, refusing to heal. Super annoying!

3. Lean on Your Support System

During this vulnerable time, reach out to friends, family, or a support group. Sharing your feelings with people who care about you can provide comfort and perspective. You don’t have to navigate heartbreak alone. Another option would be to volunteer somewhere you believe in the cause or what interests you. Distractions are good!

4. Prioritize Self-Care

Heartbreak can take a toll on your mental and physical health. Combat this by practicing self-care:

• Get enough sleep to recharge your body and mind. I know it is hard to do, but it is necessary!
• Eat nourishing meals to maintain energy levels. Or just eat at least something between your cry sessions. Keep drinking water!
• Engage in physical activity to release endorphins and boost your mood. I made a blog about physical exercise (What is Self-care anyways?) Do your best!
• Try relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.

Photo credit: Funniest Memes-Self Care Sunday

5. Reflect on the Relationship

While it’s painful, reflecting on the relationship can help you gain clarity. Ask yourself:

• What did I learn about myself?
• Were there patterns or dynamics that weren’t healthy?
• What qualities do I value in a partner moving forward?

These insights can guide you in future relationships and deepen your understanding of your needs and boundaries. Journal these thoughts as well! Keep it close and even write down what you did NOT like about your ex so you can have a “hatred list”. Helps you from seeing the cons of your ex and may make you feel a BIT better.

6. Rediscover Yourself

Heartbreak is an opportunity to reconnect with who you are outside of the relationship. Dive into hobbies or activities you may have neglected. Explore new interests, take a class, or plan solo adventures. By focusing on personal growth, you’ll rebuild confidence and rediscover your sense of identity. This is your chance to learn about yourself again and take yourself out on dates. Spoil yourself!

7. Set New Goals

Channel your energy into something positive by setting new goals. Whether it’s advancing your career, improving your fitness, or traveling, having something to work toward can inspire hope and motivation. Start small goals. Remember…look at the stair in front of you, not the whole staircase. Maybe write a to-do list on what you want to clean in your home. Start in a room and start that music!

8. Give Yourself Time

Healing doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a gradual process that requires patience and self-compassion. Avoid comparing your healing journey to others’ and recognize that it’s okay to take as much time as you need.

9. Seek Professional Help if Needed

If feelings of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness persist, consider reaching out to a therapist or counselor. Professional support can provide tools and strategies to cope with heartbreak and navigate your emotions more effectively.

Bottom Line

Heartbreak is a painful yet a transformation experience. It’s a reminder of the depth of your ability to love and connect. By honoring your emotions, leaning on support, and focusing on personal growth, you can heal and emerge stronger. Remember, this is a chapter in your story, not the end of it. With time, you’ll find peace and open your heart to new possibilities. Everyone goes through this at one point in their lives. We are all human and do not be afraid to reach out. I know it is hard to believe, but life does go on and you will eventually find someone who deserves and appreciates you. Plus, you will learn to love yourself and become even a stronger person in the process! Don’t lose hope.