How to Survive a Heartbreaking Break-Up

This is not intended for those who have dated for a few weeks. This is to help those who have dated or been engaged for a long period of time.

It is difficult to survive heartbreak. The key is to have the strength to move past the emotions and know that there is life on the other side.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A great support system if available
• Hobbies
• Lots of MENTAL STRENGTH

1. You are obviously on the receiving end of the break-up if you are searching for ways to get through the emotional messed it has caused. This is the hardest place to be as I know from experience. These steps helped me to get through my break-up and come out on the other side a better person and a stronger person.

2. Your mate has already walked out. You are a mess. What do you do now?
   
   Start by realizing that you do need a little down time to grieve. A chapter of your life has closed and you are allowed to cry and you are allowed to be depressed over the ending of your relationship. This may seem like nothing to your friends, but might be a tragedy to you and how it impacts you is all that matters.
   
   Do not let friends guilt you into immediately going out. You will only be miserable. Again, allow yourself time to heal a little. Trust me, there will come a moment of clarity when you realize that this will not kill you and you still have a life to lead.
   
   During your grieving process is a great time to start a hobby or really throw yourself into a hobby that you already enjoy. I found that working out at the gym was an excellent place to make myself feel better. Pop the music in your ears and just lose yourself in working out and feeling better. This is where I discovered my moment of clarity

3. You will find yourself at times thinking about your lost mate and whether they are with another person. You have to avoid doing this at all costs! This will drive you insane. Find an outlet to use when you find yourself thinking about this. Something that will take your mind off it immediately like reading a book (no romance novels). I started reading the Anne Rice Vampire series during this time.

4. During this time you will find that everything reminds you of your relationship. Commercials, songs on the radio, etc. The only thing you can do during this time is change the station or somehow remove yourself from situation.

5. There will come a time - and it won't take as long as you think - when you will be ready to start thinking about your life again. REMEMBER: FOR EVERY DOOR THAT SHUTS, ANOTHER WILL OPEN UP.
   
   Once you reach this level, you need to start really looking at your life positive.
   
   Concentrate on improving your inner self. Don't be afraid to be alone. Remember: If even you can't stand to be alone with yourself, then how can you expect someone else to want to be alone with you.
   
   Above everything else: Keep in mind that this too shall pass. Life is full of ups and downs and just believe that everything happens for a reason.

Tips & Warnings

• Always keep a positive attitude. Allow yourself to grieve, but then pick yourself up and move on. It is easier said than done, but I have done it and it is possible.
• Sometimes our depression over ended relationships is more than we can handle. Do not be afraid to talk to a professional if you feel you just cannot get out of the slump or if you are having thoughts of hurting yourself or someone else.