Healing from a breakup can be incredibly difficult at any age, especially when they are unexpected or happen with someone that you’ve been with for a long period of time and really cared about. It can be hard to know how to pick up the pieces, learn how to cope, and move on. In some cases, people who have gone through a rough breakup may feel the urge to turn to drug or alcohol misuse as a way to cope with the pain. This can not only make you feel worse but can also create a serious problem.
It is far better to practice healthier coping mechanisms as you sort through the emotions you are dealing with. This will ensure that the healing process goes as smoothly as possible and that when the time comes, you’ll be able to move on and accept the love you deserve.
What Is the First Thing I Should Do After a Breakup?
One of the worst things you can do after a breakup is try to force yourself to move on too quickly. So many people often make the mistake of trying to find someone new right away so that they don’t have to confront the pain they are experiencing. Often, these sudden relationships don’t work out because the individual has not yet taken the time to heal from their last relationship. They are not yet at a place where they are truly open to someone new.
Instead, the first thing you should do after a breakup is to allow yourself to feel however you are feeling. Relationships can bring about a wide variety of powerful and passionate emotions. Sometimes, these emotions can go beyond what is truly rational. You may find your emotions changing quickly in the days and weeks immediately following your breakup. At first, you may feel denial or shock. As time goes on, you may feel angry or betrayed. This can be followed by sadness and, eventually, acceptance.
No matter how you’re feeling during the initial stages of your breakup, your emotions are valid. Give yourself time to process how you’re feeling. It can help to talk with a trusted friend or family member. After all, you are not the first person to experience this. Speaking with someone who has been through this before can really help to put things in perspective and make you feel better.
How Can I Make Myself Feel Better After a Breakup?
There are many things that you can do to make yourself feel better after a breakup, but it is important that you don’t forget the basics. Make sure that you’re taking care of yourself by getting enough sleep, eating regularly, and staying hydrated.
Exercise is also one of the best ways to boost your mood. Not only can it help you to let go of some built-up emotion, but it will help to release endorphins as well. A quick 30-minute workout can make all the difference, and you may see a dramatic change in your mood.
Self-care is also very important during this time. Consider what you typically do to make yourself feel better when you’re stressed, anxious, or depressed. Maybe you spend some time out in nature, journaling, watching your favorite television show, or doing some meditation. These things are perhaps more important now than ever, so ensure you’re doing them frequently.
How Do I Set Firm Boundaries After a Breakup?
One mistake that many people make after a breakup is going back and forth about whether or not they made the right decision. They might know deep down that it was what needed to be done, but the pain of missing their ex can cause them to second-guess themselves. They might find themselves calling or texting their ex and even considering getting back together.
Some people may think that they need to have one last encounter to find the closure they need to move on. However, in most cases, this can only make the healing process that much more difficult.
Instead, it is important to set firm boundaries with your ex and stay focused on the future instead of the past.
What Is the Last Step in the Process of Healing From a Breakup?
While it might not feel like it now, eventually, the time will come when you feel ready to start moving on. Stay open to meeting new people but don’t feel like you need to jump into a new relationship right away. Consider forming friendships first and then seeing if there is the possibility of romance sometime in the future.
Most importantly, continue to remind yourself of your worth and the love that you deserve. Don’t become discouraged if you don’t find it right away because it is out there.
Going through a breakup can be an incredibly emotional and difficult experience. This is especially the case when the breakup is unexpected or with someone you’ve been with for a long time. Breakups often bring up a lot of different emotions, from anger and sadness to betrayal. The best thing you can do after a breakup is to allow yourself to process your emotions and ensure that you’re taking care of yourself. Self-care is essential during this time. It can also help to speak with a loved one. If you are turning to substances to self-medicate, our team at The Ho Tai Way wants to help. Call (714) 881-8931 to learn more about our programs today.
