Looking for ways to avoid depression after a breakup?
After calling off a relationship that you thought would last forever, what are you supposed to do next? Time magazine says those who go through a break up are 20 times more likely to go through depression within the next year.
It's not going to be easy, but by paying attention to yourself, you can get through this difficult time and come out the other end happy and smiling.
Below are some tips to avoid depression after a breakup. Follow these soul searching ideas, each of which will lead you on the better path ahead.
One of the best ways to avoid depression after a breakup is to stay away from your ex. Sometimes this is unavoidable given the fact that you two have the same social circle or work at the same place, but minimizing contact will give you the space you need. Try to go back to the life you had before he was in it. Also, avoid the places you know he hangs out at.
Delete the playlist you made together along with the birthday and Christmas presents you shared. You won’t need them now and they will just remind you of him.
Help Guide recommends surrounding yourself with people who really care about you. You know - the friends who told you he was wrong for you ten times over. Go back to spending time with them.
Take yourself on a date to the park that he would never go to because he didn’t like being outside, go to that rom com movie he would never sit through. The world is yours to enjoy.
Is there something you have always wanted to do but have never had the time? Do it now! Going out and doing things will distract you. Also, you will have fun trying something new.
Learn new things and meet new people. It will be refreshing to feel like a part of something again. Join a club, volunteer, or take a class.
Exercise, sleep and, eat because you need to take care of yourself. Exercise can help decrease stress. Just try to avoid stress eating.
You will feel high and then go low at times. Do not push the feelings aside. Doing this won’t help you move on.
When you are in love, you are blind to red flags. Try to think about the situation rationally. Did you two have the same goals and ultimately want the same things out of the relationship?
Psychology Today recommends saying things to yourself, including “I love myself”, “I want to be happy”, and “I will find someone better”. Self-help and self-love can go a long way in recovering after a breakup.