Is it just me who’s going through heartbreak season right now?
This article was written by The Line Creative Hub member Binusha P.
I recently broke up with my long-term boyfriend.
While deep down I knew the relationship had run its course, it still hurt.
Because, regardless of who ends things, breaking up with someone you love is hard.
Even more so when you’re having to navigate being single again.
Now that I was on my own, I had a lot of time to think about ways to heal and move on.
One way was to learn how to love myself again, which was something I forgot how to do in the relationship.
So from one heartbroken individual to another, here are the most important things I learnt from dealing with my breakup.
1. Self-Care is Self-Love
During my post-breakup doomscroll, the term ‘self-care’ kept coming up.
It’s a trending word on mental health TikTok, and it basically embodies the many ways you can look after yourself and your wellbeing.
It looks different for everyone and could include playing a new video game, getting your hair done, buying new clothes, or basically whatever brings you joy.
As for myself, I decided to try journaling all of the emotions I felt about the breakup.
It was my practice of self-care that allowed me to avoid second-guessing my decision and have a physical reminder of how strong I was.
So it’s important to realise that caring for yourself especially after a life altering change like a breakup, is a sign of self-love and that you’re going to look after yourself no matter how you’re feeling.
2. Find your Support System
‘I’ll be there for you', the theme song of Friends, definitely rings true.
If you feel like crying, which can scientifically help you feel better, or just want someone to vent to, talking to your friends can be a helpful outlet for moving on from your breakup.
It definitely helped me as I spent many nights unpacking my relationship on a group Discord call.
Being surrounded by people who understood what I was going through made me feel seen, and a little less alone.
I know that without my friends' initial support, I would’ve entered a guilt spiral.
But it doesn’t just have to be friends, talking to a trusted family member, co-worker or even a therapist can help you sort through any feelings you have about the breakup.
3. Let Go And Heal
Losing the person I loved made me feel like a big part of my life was now missing.
But as time went on, I had to trust my decision and learn to let go.
Whether or not your relationship ends on good terms, you have a right to feel upset and take the time you need to grieve.
Because, after all, healing isn’t a linear process and reminiscing on the past isn’t a sign of weakness.
When you feel ready to, try thinking about it like a life lesson rather than a regret.
Even the smallest first step can be enough to help you move forward.
