Understanding Heartbreak

Heartbreak isn’t limited to romantic relationships. Friendships, especially those formed during young adulthood, can be just as intense and meaningful. When those bonds break, it can be equally devastating. The first step is to acknowledge your pain and allow yourself to grieve. It’s okay to miss someone and feel hurt. Think of heartbreak as a storm; you might get drenched, but it will eventually pass, and you’ll see the sun again. Emotions are like waves; they ebb and flow, and just like tides, they change. Allow yourself the space to feel these emotions fully because pushing them down is like trying to hold back the ocean. We need to feel to heal .

Dealing with Romantic Heartbreak

Allow yourself to experience all the emotions. Cry if you need to, write down your thoughts, or talk to someone you trust. Trying to suppress your emotions is like trying to hold back a sneeze; inevitable, not recommended and well.. painful? Sometimes, it’s through the tears and pain that we find our greatest strength. Embrace the messiness of your feelings.

This is your heart processing what has happened and finding ways to mend itself. If possible, try to limit contact with your ex. This helps you gain perspective and start the healing process. It’s like trying to quit sugar, keeping a stash of chocolate bars in the house won’t help. Distance gives you the room to breathe, to re-establish your boundaries, and to start seeing your life independently from the relationship that has ended. It’s an essential step in reclaiming your own space and identity.

Engage in activities that make you happy and are good for your mental health and wellbeing; Exercise, pick up a new hobby, or put your headphones on and take a walk in nature. Think of it as a spa day for your soul. Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and face masks (although those are great)- it’s about doing whatever makes you feel whole and rejuvenated. It’s a way to remind yourself that you are worth taking care of and that your well-being is a priority.

Surround yourself with friends and family who care about you. Sometimes, talking things out can provide immense relief. Friends are like the Wi-Fi in a cafe, absolutely essential. Lean on your support network because that’s what they’re there for – and you’d do it for them! They can provide a fresh perspective, offer comfort, and remind you of the strong person you are. Every relationship teaches us something. Reflect on what you’ve learned about yourself and what you want in future relationships. Consider it an emotional upgrade. This process of introspection helps you understand what went wrong, what you need, and what you can do differently next time. It’s not about placing blame but about learning and growing from the experience.

Coping with Friendship Breakups

Just like a romantic breakup, losing a friend can be painful. Recognise the significance of the friendship and give yourself time to heal.  Friendships are often our emotional anchors, and losing one can feel like we’re slightly adrift. Give yourself the grace to mourn that loss properly. If possible, have an honest conversation with your friend about what went wrong.

Closure can sometimes help in moving on. It’s like hitting the refresh button on your browser – necessary for a fresh start. Understanding each other’s perspectives can sometimes heal the rift, or at least provide the closure needed to move forward without lingering questions. Engage with different groups and make new friends. This doesn’t mean replacing old friends but expanding your network. Think of it as upgrading from a flip phone to a smartphone; more features, more fun. Having a diverse group of friends can provide different kinds of support and joy, making your social life more robust and resilient.

Fill your time with productive activities for your mental health and wellbeing. We know that being a student, whether you’re studying abroad or at home can be challenging, but whether it’s joining a club, volunteering, or focusing on work, staying busy can help divert your mind. Think of it as keeping the engine running so you don’t stall. Staying active and involved in new projects keeps your mind occupied and gives you a sense of purpose and achievement. Don’t forget to surround yourself with friends and family who care about you.

Sometimes, talking things out can provide immense relief. Lean on people you trust, we all need that comfort something!  If the pain feels overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek help from a counsellor or therapist. Professional help can provide you with tools and strategies to manage your emotions healthily and constructively, helping you navigate through the storm.