Breakups are never easy, but some are more difficult than others. Whether you were with someone for a few months or several years, you have a right to grieve your relationship when it ends. However, you may find some difficulties keep you from moving forward productively.
Recovery may take some time, but when you put yourself first, you will get through it.
Are you currently struggling with a difficult breakup and aren’t sure where to go from here? Let’s look at some healthy ways to focus on yourself and your recovery.
1. Get Physical
We carry a great deal of emotional stress in our physical bodies. Those aches and pains may not be random, but rather the result of your breakup stress. By getting active you can ease your physical aches and help yourself feel better mentally and emotionally, as well.
If you’re already an active person, you may want to try out a new sport or exercise routine. If you aren’t very active, don’t feel like you need to start intense workouts to feel better. Simply by going for a walk or stretching your body, you can still reap the physical and mental benefits of exercise.
2. Start Journaling
When we go through breakups, there are typically many emotions involved. You may have all of these emotions but feel unsure about what to make of them. If this is your predicament, journaling is a great outlet. By documenting your journey, you can make better sense of your feelings. Furthermore, you can look back on your thoughts and reflect on how far you’ve come.
3. Seek Comfort From Friends and Family
When you break up with someone, you lose a person who cared about you very deeply. Because you lost them, it’s easy to lose sight of other people who love you, too. Don’t push friends and family away during this difficult time — in fact, you should embrace them now more than ever. If possible, spend extra time with your friends, make phone calls to your family, and keep in touch with those who love you.
4. Focus on Self-Care
There’s no better time than after a breakup to focus on self-care. For the first time in a while, you can put all your energy and attention into yourself. Self-care means different things for different people, so whatever it means to you, start doing more of it! Whatever is healthy and makes you feel good, embrace it. If you struggle here, consider sessions with a therapist who can help you tap into your own needs and wants again.
5. Try Out a New Hobby
When you’re in a relationship, you get used to doing things as a couple. After a breakup, finding a new solo hobby is a great way to get used to doing things on your own again. Consider your interests and explore your options. You could try your hand at cooking, pottery, or even knitting — whatever piques your interest! By focusing on your new hobby, you’re finding a productive way to better yourself and move forward, away from your old relationship.
6. Talk About Your Feelings
Breakups are inevitably emotional. If you’re having a hard time recovering, it’s crucial to talk about what you’re going through. You can talk to friends, family, or even a journal, but if you still aren’t able to move on, you may want to seek out a compassionate, objective therapist.
Many people overlook therapy as an option after a difficult breakup, but there are several benefits. One of the best things you can do after a breakup is talk about it, and a therapist is there to listen. Not only that, but they can offer more constructive ways to recover healthily and move forward with peace. You may feel alone after a breakup, but you aren’t. Seeking out a therapist to help you recover so you can start enjoying your life once again.
Please read more about life transitions counseling and contact us soon for a consultation.
The therapists at the Relationship Counseling Center of Austin work with individuals who need guidance and support as you navigate your break-up. Give our office a call at (512) 270-4883, or request an appointment online at the RCC Austin Scheduling page, and someone will be in touch with you shortly. We hope to hear from you.