It’s been said, “Relationships are like glass. Sometimes it’s better to leave them broken than try to hurt yourself putting it back together.” Making this choice leaves a person heartbroken in many instances. Most of us have experienced this at least once in our lives.
There is no mistaking when you are suffering heartbreak. With heartbreak comes physical symptoms such as a tightness in your chest, a nagging lump in your throat, nausea, loss or gain of appetite, frequent crying spells, mixed emotions of sadness, anger, and even revenge. It can feel like you will never heal or get through your severe pain.
Here are some steps to take to begin to see hope after your heartbreak:
- Journal your pain and anger (while crying the “ugly” cry): Write down your feelings as well as the reasons why you are suffering a heartbreak from that person. During times when you’re wavering emotionally to reach out to your ex, read your thoughts and feelings to give yourself a reality check.
- Break off all contact: Try to give yourself a minimum of 6 months to heal from your heartbreak before making any necessary contact for closure. Fight the temptation to text nasty outbursts!
- Do some housekeeping: Get rid of anything that reminds you of that relationship in your home, car, work, phone, or elsewhere to avoid constant emotional triggers. (Hopefully you didn’t get a tattoo…)
- Love on You: Hang out with friends for support; get plenty of rest, nourishment, and exercise. Treat yourself to a massage or a trip to the spa.
- Be patient: It’s true what they say that times heals all wounds. If you feel that too much time has passed (I’d say more than 3 months) and you are still experiencing symptoms of a heartbreak, seek professional help from a therapist or other advisor.
Porsha Williams, LAMFT
Pwilliams@ GROWcounseling.com