Healing From a Pandemic Breakup

Breakups are hard enough; pandemic breakups present even more challenges.

Morgan Mandriota of Well+Good consults relationship experts, including myself, in 7 Tips to Heal From a Breakup During the Pandemic.

Excerpt:

Don’t forget about your physical well-being. “Our nervous systems essentially go through withdrawal from no longer being physiologically bound to an ex—no matter how healthy or unhealthy the relationship was,” says licensed marriage and family therapist Indigo Stray Conger, LMFT. “Make sure you cultivate a routine of sunshine, moderate exercise, and a nourishing and consistent diet. When your body is tended to, your heart and soul will follow.”

Move forward in healing by reconnecting with friends, family, and other folks you know you can depend on in your time of need. “Engaging people who love you in your healing process, even from a distance or over Zoom, can go a long way in reducing irrational thoughts and sadness,” says Conger. This can also help to strengthen your other relationships that might have been back-burnered before your breakup.

“Since we’re already more isolated during the pandemic, with most of us receiving far less in-person contact and physical touch, dealing with a breakup leaves you more susceptible to depression and isolation,” says Conger. “Let your friends and family know how they can help, whether by off-loading practical matters or taking midnight phone calls for emotional support. Your loved ones want to help you, and it’s imperative that you’re not alone during this time of grief.”