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7 Healthy Ways to Cope With a Breakup

Published on

6th Apr 2017

7 Healthy Ways to Cope With a Breakup

Be it mutual or one-sided, the decision to end a romantic relationship always feels like you have lost a piece of yourself with it. This usually causes a profound sense of loss and sadness. You might feel as though everything is falling apart, and as if this feeling will never end. But there’s more than one way to get through it.

1. Talk to a Friend

Research shows that speaking to someone about our difficulties helps us feel less stressed, as well as provides us with the love and care we may be looking for. Alongside this, speaking to a close friend always brings the added benefit of them providing practical advice on the matters of the heart.

2. Pour it out on Paper

You may find yourself in a situation where expressing yourself to a friend or a close relative may not always be feasible. Try writing down your stressful thoughts and feelings in a private place, without the fear of judgement. Research shows that expressing stressful thoughts and emotions reduces the overall negative effects associated with it.

3. Volunteer

You might find yourself craving social support, but not ready to meet the people who remind you of your ex. Spend this time volunteering with those in need, with animals if you prefer not being around people. It’ll help you feel good and rebuild your self-esteem.

4. Self-love is Key

Post-breakup, you might be plagued with doubt and insecurity but don’t give in to it. Show yourself as much love, kindness and compassion you would to a close friend going through a similar situation.

5. Take Care of Your Body

Get out your running shoes and pump up the adrenaline. Experts agree that physical activity increases self-esteem and lowers stress as well as anxiety. Use your breakup as an opportunity to become healthier and bring the focus back to yourself.

6. Take a Step Back and Re-evaluate

As human beings, we are constantly evolving and so are our needs. Although a breakup is a stressful and painful situation, it gives you the opportunity to take some time out and relearn things that matter to you and to grow at a personal level. So indulge yourself in new activities like dancing, painting, or even pottery to find your heart’s calling.

7. Be Patient

Do not try to rush through this period. As hard as it may be, no particular habit or trick can make this phase suddenly vanish. Instead, give yourself the time and space to recover. It may not happen overnight, but eventually, with time, it will hurt less and less till it no longer hurts at all.

References

Ando, M. (2016). Relationships among moral distress, sense of coherence, and job satisfaction. Nursing Ethics. doi:10.1177/0969733016660882

Lepore, S. J., & Greenberg, M. A. (2002). Mending Broken Hearts: Effects of Expressive Writing on Mood, Cognitive Processing, Social Adjustment and Health Following a Relationship Breakup. Psychology & Health,17(5), 547-560. doi:10.1080/08870440290025768

Neff, K. D., Kirkpatrick, K. L., & Rude, S. S. (2007). Self-compassion and adaptive psychological functioning. Journal of Research in Personality,41(1), 139-154. doi:10.1016/j.jrp.2006.03.004

Weinstein, N., & Ryan, R. M. (2010). When helping helps: Autonomous motivation for prosocial behavior and its influence on well-being for the helper and recipient. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology,98(2), 222-244. doi:10.1037/a0016984

Weiss, M. R. (2007). Psychological Benefits of Youth Sport and Physical Activity Participation. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise,39(Supplement), 41. doi:10.1249/01.mss.0000272344.32251.1c

Wethington, E., & Kessler, R. C. (1986). Perceived Support, Received Support, and Adjustment to Stressful Life Events. Journal of Health and Social Behavior,27(1), 78. doi:10.2307/2136504 

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Amaha is equipped to provide care and support for individuals experiencing severe psychological distress, including schizophrenia and other psychotic conditions. For those in need of more intensive care and daily support, we are launching an in-patient care facility in Bengaluru soon.

If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of self-harm, suicide, or any other life-threatening situation, contact a helpline or go to the nearest hospital or emergency room. Having a close family member or friend with you for support can be invaluable during this time.

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