How to Cheer up a Friend After a Breakup

Cheering up a friend after the breakup of a romantic relationship can be especially difficult if that friend is a male. Men may be more likely to hide their emotions and less likely to talk about their feelings. However there are ways to be there for a male friend and help lift his spirits. Follow the steps below to help get your friend through the heartache.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Consider your friends personality. Some men may love a night out on the town with a large group of people to lighten the mood. Other men would prefer a quite dinner with just one friend talk things out. Go with what you think will work for your friend.

2. Plan a surprise. Purchase a special gift you know your friend has wanted. Put together a weekend trip for friends. Doing something special for your friend not only allows him to focus on something pleasant but lets him know you are thinking about him.

3. Tell your friend what is special about him. A breakup can hurt self-esteem especially if your friend was not the one who initiated the breakup. Everyone needs to hear they are still lovable. Remind your friend about all his good qualities and how he is unique.

4. Use humor. The old saying laughter is the best medicine is often true. Take your friend to a funny movie or remember funny times you had together. Find humor in your own life. Keep in mind it's not the time to make fun of your friend's ex or his feelings.

5. Get physical. Doing something active with your buddy may help cheer him up. Exercise can improve mood and take his mind off things. Consider playing tennis, going running or shooting hoops together.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't try to fix the problem. Sometimes a friend just needs to vent and let out his grief. A breakup can cause heartache which takes time to heal. Don't tell your friend to get over it or move on.
• Put aside your own problems. You may be tempted to talk about your own failed relationships to make a point. Keep in mind the focus is your friend. Let him talk.