How to Heal a Broken Heart

Recovering from a breakup can be difficult as you're engulfed by a whirlwind of emotions. You might push yourself to get out of bed and go about your day even when your heart is in pieces. To heal, you can practice self-care, turn to friends, family, or seek help from a therapist or counselor. Additionally, learning to let go of your past relationship will help you move forward and focus on improving your emotional state.

Avoid Contact with Them. Give yourself the necessary time and space to heal after the breakup. Stay away from talking or texting with the person. Unfollow them on social media to create some distance.

• Let them know that you need time and space, and in doing so, they will refrain from reaching out. Say, "I need time for myself. I would really appreciate it if you could not contact me while I am working through my emotions."

Get rid of items or mementos from that person. Don't keep things that belong to them or that remind you of them. Accept that you need to part with these items in order to heal your broken heart.

• For example, you can arrange for them to come and collect their belongings from your place – you might ask a friend to help, and donate the gifts they gave you to charity.

Consider filling the void with a new relationship. Although using a new relationship to fill the void is often seen as detrimental for both parties, you might still find some genuine benefits from meeting new people after a breakup. Dating could help you feel more valued and forget your ex more easily. It might also reduce anxiety and foster independence if you start dating again soon after a breakup.

• You could agree to let friends or family set you up. Alternatively, try online dating to meet new people.

Wait until you're ready to be with someone else. If you feel too fragile and vulnerable to date someone else while your heart is still broken, wait until you're prepared. Instead, focus on self-care and spending time with friends and family. Pay attention to your own needs and personal growth. Then, pursue a new relationship when you're ready.

• You may need some time for your heart to heal and feel open to dating again. Be patient with yourself and don't rush your healing process.

Write down your thoughts and feelings in a journal. Express what you're feeling on paper. Don't pressure yourself to edit or review what you've written. Simply let out your emotions and state of mind. This will help you feel better about your broken heart and gradually calm your thoughts.

• You can use prompts like: "What were the issues in that relationship?", "How did I know we were going to break up?", "How am I feeling right now?"

Focus on a hobby. Whether you enjoy painting, reading, or have a passion for woodworking, weaving, or playing sports, direct your attention to an activity you enjoy. Instead of letting emotions overwhelm you, this will help you relax and focus on the present rather than dwelling on past relationships.

• Consider joining classes for hobbies you love, like painting or weaving. Additionally, you can sign up for sports teams such as volleyball or basketball, which will help you focus on what you love.

Get moving every day. Exercising and breaking a sweat is a great way to feel less down after a breakup. Try jogging or walking, aiming for at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day. Join fitness classes several times a week.

• If you struggle to stay motivated, invite a friend to join you. You can also ask them to go jogging or walking together.

Try deep breathing exercises. If you begin to feel anxious or stressed due to the breakup, try practicing deep breathing exercises to calm down and relax. Find a quiet, private space and take slow, deep breaths for a few minutes each time.

• You could also join a class that focuses on deep breathing to feel more at peace and relaxed.
• Many yoga classes encourage deep breathing. Consider joining yoga sessions that focus on slow, relaxing movements.

Use positive affirmations. These can help maintain an optimistic perspective, even when you're feeling overwhelmed or heartbroken. Try repeating positive affirmations each morning when you wake up or each night before going to sleep. Focus on statements that make you feel strong and full of life.

• For instance, you can say: “I will be okay” or “I am strong and resilient.” You can also use affirmations like: “I will overcome this” or “I will rise above it.”

Avoid self-destructive behaviors. When you're feeling hurt, it's easy to fall into dangerous patterns. However, try to avoid actions that harm both your physical and mental health, such as excessive drinking or substance abuse. Additionally, refrain from frequent contact with your ex or isolating yourself. These behaviors will only lead to more pain for both you and those around you.

• If you feel tempted to engage in self-destructive behaviors, reach out to friends or family for support.
• Immediately seek help or call emergency services if you're considering harming yourself.

Spend time with close friends or family. Turn to your friends and family for support when you're feeling heartbroken. Contact your best friends and organize a dinner or plan a fun outing together. Reach out to your family and give them the time they deserve.

• Usually, being around those who care about you will make you feel better and less lonely.
• Don't isolate yourself from others. Even just reaching out to one friend can make a big difference.

Offer help to those in need. Helping others can ease your own sense of loneliness and disconnection. Bring food to a sick friend or take a family member to their medical appointment. Be there for someone who needs assistance.

• You could also volunteer at a local charity or organization to help others in your community.

Adopt a pet. Pets can help take your mind off the heartache. They make great companions and provide daily emotional support. Visit animal shelters or pet stores to adopt a pet.

• If you're not ready for full-time pet ownership, consider fostering animals temporarily at shelters or helping friends with their pets.
• Make sure you're prepared to care for a pet before adopting one. You'll need time and money for food and other pet care essentials.

See a therapist or counselor. If you're really struggling to stabilize your emotions and mental well-being, reach out to a professional. Find a local therapist to talk to or connect with a counselor through your school or doctor. Schedule an appointment and express your feelings.

• You can also find therapists who offer online consultations, allowing you to talk with them through messaging platforms or video calls.
• If you know anyone in your family or friend circle who is currently seeing a therapist or counselor, ask for a recommendation. You'll feel more comfortable meeting with someone trusted who is skilled and friendly.