How to Overcome a Breakup

Breakups are never easy. Whether you were the one who initiated the split or not, it's a difficult and emotional process to go through...

Grief
May 23, 2025

Breakups are never easy. Whether you were the one who initiated the split or not, it's a difficult and emotional process to go through. We all have different ways of coping with heartbreak, but sometimes it can feel like nothing will ever make us feel better again. If you're struggling to move on from a breakup, know that you're not alone. In this blog post, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for overcoming a breakup and healing your heart. From self-care practices to seeking support from loved ones, we've got you covered. Let's get started on the path to healing and finding happiness again.

Give Yourself Time to Grieve

The first step towards overcoming a breakup is to give yourself time to grieve. It's important to acknowledge your feelings and allow yourself to experience the full spectrum of emotions that come with heartbreak.

Some ways you can do this include.

  • Recognizing and accepting your feelings, whether they be sadness, anger, or hurt
  • Avoiding unhealthy coping mechanisms such as drugs or alcohol
  • Taking the time to reflect on the relationship and what went wrong

Remember that healing is a process and it's okay to take things one day at a time. By giving yourself permission to grieve, you're allowing yourself the space and time needed to begin the journey toward healing.

Focus on Self-Care Practices

The second step towards overcoming a breakup is to focus on self-care practices. Taking care of yourself both physically and mentally can help you feel better, boost your mood, and give you the strength you need to move forward.

Here are some self-care practices to consider.

  • Engage in regular exercise or physical activity
  • Eat a healthy, balanced diet and stay hydrated
  • Get enough sleep each night
  • Practice mindfulness techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises

By prioritizing self-care practices, you're showing yourself love and compassion during a difficult time. Remember that taking care of yourself is not selfish, but rather an essential part of the healing process.

a guy with his hand across his chin

Seek Support from Loved Ones

The third step towards overcoming a breakup is to seek support from loved ones.

Having a strong support system can make all the difference in the healing process.

Here are some ways you can seek support.

  • Reach out to friends and family members who you trust and feel comfortable talking to
  • Consider joining a support group or seeking therapy
  • Allow yourself to be vulnerable and open up about your feelings

Remember that it's okay to lean on others during this time.

Your loved ones care about you and want to help you through this difficult time.

By seeking support, you're not only helping yourself heal but also strengthening your relationships with those around you.

Reframe Your Perspective

The next step towards overcoming a breakup is to reframe your perspective. It's easy to get caught up in negative thoughts and feelings after a breakup, but changing the way you think about the situation can help you move forward.

Here are some ways to reframe your perspective.

  • Focus on the positive aspects of the breakup, such as newfound freedom or opportunities for personal growth
  • Practice gratitude by reflecting on the good things in your life
  • Challenge negative self-talk and replace it with positive affirmations
  • Recognize that this experience is part of your journey and that you have the power to learn and grow from it

By reframing your perspective, you're taking control of your thoughts and emotions and paving the way for a brighter future.

Remember that healing takes time, so be patient with yourself as you work through this process.

Take Action Towards Your Goals

The next step towards overcoming a breakup is to take action toward your goals. This is a great time to focus on yourself and work towards achieving your dreams. Here are some ways to take action.

  • Set new goals for yourself, whether they're personal or professional
  • Create a plan of action and break it down into smaller, achievable steps
  • Surround yourself with positive influences and seek out opportunities for growth
  • Take care of your physical health by exercising regularly, eating nutritious foods, and getting enough sleep

By taking action toward your goals, you're investing in yourself and building a brighter future. Be patient with yourself as you work towards achieving your dreams.

Seek Professional Help if Necessary

Seeking professionals can be an important step towards healing after a breakup. Sometimes, it can be difficult to navigate the complex emotions and challenges that come with a breakup on your own. A therapist or counselor can provide support, guidance, and tools for coping with difficult feelings and moving forward healthily. Don't hesitate to reach out for help if you feel like you need it - there's no shame in seeking support from a professional.

Conclusion

Overcoming a breakup can be a challenging process, but it's important to remember that healing is possible.By taking action towards your goals, surrounding yourself with positive influences, and seeking professional help if necessary, you can move forward healthily and build a brighter future for yourself. Remember to be patient with yourself and take things one step at a time - progress takes time, but with perseverance and self-care, you can emerge from this difficult time stronger than ever before.

Author
Jennifer Luttman, LPC, ACS

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.

Common Questions about Grief

What are some things I can do to heal from my grief during the holidays?

There are a few things you can do to help ease your pain during the holiday season. First, try to avoid triggers that may cause you to feel sad or upset. Triggers can be anything from certain songs or smells, to seeing certain people or places. If you know there will be triggers at holiday gatherings, try to arrive late or leave early if possible. You can also try to create new traditions that don't involve the triggers.

I'm dreading the holidays because I know they will be so hard without my loved one. How can I get through them?

It is completely normal to feel dread or even fear when thinking about the upcoming holiday season. One way to ease your anxiety is by planning ahead and being prepared for how you will deal with tough moments. If there are certain events you know will be difficult, try to come up with an exit strategy beforehand so you can leave if needed. It can also be helpful to talk to a therapist or counselor before the holidays to help you manage your expectations and emotions.

What type of grief counseling is available in Colorado Springs?

We offer a variety of specialized services, including individual therapy, group therapy, and various therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or psychodynamic therapy.

Is there any support for family members affected by a loved one's death?

Yes, we provide supportive counseling for family members who are struggling with the loss of a loved one. Our compassionate therapists can help you gain insight into your feelings and provide constructive strategies to cope with the pain of bereavement.

What are some common symptoms of grief in the elderly?

There are a variety of symptoms that can be associated with grief in the elderly. Some common physical symptoms include fatigue, changes in appetite, and difficulty sleeping. Emotional symptoms can include sadness, anger, anxiety, and guilt. It's also common for those who are grieving to withdraw from social activities and lose interest in hobbies or activities they once enjoyed.

How long does grief usually last in the elderly?

There is no "right" or "wrong" answer when it comes to how long grief will last in the elderly. For some people, the grieving process may last for several months or even years. For others, it may come in waves – they may have periods of intense grief followed by periods of relative calm. It's important to remember that everyone grieves in their own way and at their own pace.