How to Feel Better From a Broken Heart
The broken heart has been a subject of interest for centuries. From poetry to medicine, philosophers and scientists alike have tried to understand what, exactly, a broken heart is. In general, the term "broken heart" refers to the emotional response that comes as a result of losing a loved one. A broken heart can be the result of a romantic relationship coming to an end, the death of a loved one or the shock of a betrayal. However, it is possible to treat and cure a broken heart by attending to the physical symptoms and behavioral patters that often come with the broken heart.
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Instructions
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Understand the stages of grief. Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross has identified five stages that grieving people go through as part of the healing process. It is helpful to be aware of these stages and acknowledge them as you pass through each one. Having this awareness can help keep you from getting stuck in any one of the extreme emotions that come in the wake of a great loss.
The five stages are the following: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. First, people refuse to accept their loss. Second, they become angry at the cause (real or imagined) of the loss. Third, they try to strike a deal with God, or the Powers That Be, to amend the loss. Fourth, they sink into a depression, and isolate themselves from society. And last, if they have moved through each phase successfully, they accept the loss and are ready to move on.
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Keep close company with people you trust. In the wake of a heartbreak, we tend to isolate ourselves and shut our close family and friends out of our lives. Though painful, it is important to reach out to people around you whom you know you can trust. Allow them to witness whatever you are going through. Having someone around decreases the risk of unhealthy behavior that can lead to even greater heartbreak. Surround yourself with people who will take care of you, and who will not let you engage in destructive modes of behavior, including over-eating, consuming too many alcoholic beverages or staying home from work.
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Write down the names of people who are most important to you. Pick up your telephone and call them one by one. Ask them how they are, and tell them how you are. Invite them to a potluck dinner, and have a close friend come by early to help you get things ready.
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Make a list of your favorite books, music and activities. Look for other books that your favorite authors have written. Make a mix CD of your favorite tunes to give to a new friend. Do one activity that you love every day.
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Attend to your physical needs. Keep nutritious food around the house, and make sure to get daily exercise. Go for a 15-minute walk in the middle of the day and look around. Do not fail to notice the color of the sky, the strength of a breeze or the smells you move through. Write a poem about any thought that pops into your head on your walk.
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