Don’t let a failed relationship break you

Failed relationships may leave you feeling like a failure, so renew yourself this new year.

If you've never been a loner, try not to spend too much time on your own while you deal with your heartbreak. Photo: Pixabay

If relationships are not nurtured, they will fall apart.

Broken relationships cause stress for both parties as they experience feelings of sadness, anger, disappointment or fear. As the parties involved process their emotions, they should try to imagine what impact the conflict has had on the other party. Shawn Sibanda spoke to the News about dealing with heartbreak.

“People have to realise that the loss of any relationship results in real pain. It will get better with time, but give yourself permission to go through the stages of grief and the healing process,” he said.

Shawn listed the four stages that one goes through when heartbroken: anger, hurt, denial and sadness. Talking to a therapist or counsellor can help you through the healing process.

“Let yourself feel the intense pain – it will gradually lose its intensity. Don’t hide your pain, be honest with yourself,” said Shawn.

Listing your strengths will help you acknowledge your capabilities, making you feel good about yourself. You will eventually realise that you can make it without the person you have lost. “On an emotional level you, you are taking charge, moving your body, looking after yourself and becoming the master of both your mind and body,” he said.

Do not shut down your feelings. Allow yourself to laugh and cry. Reach out and help others, especially the less fortunate in your community – putting a smile on someone else’s face goes a long way towards helping you get over your loss.