How to get over heartbreak

It's never easy when a relationship ends. Maybe it was a mutual decision, maybe one of you decided that things had run their course - however it went down, feelings and emotions are involved. It's called heartbreak because that's exactly what it feels like.

There's no shortage of advice out there on how to mend a broken heart, but what actually works?

While none of these will be a silver bullet solution, here's a few things you could try:

Set some boundaries

If the relationship ended relatively amicably, you've probably talked about how you'll still be friends. You might still be texting each other, sending emojis or whatever. A good starting point is to take a break from that.

That's not to say that you can't be friends one day, but you both need some space to recalibrate how you feel about each other and what the dynamic between you will be moving forward.

It's okay to be upfront about that - send her a message that says something like, "Hey, I'm just going to take a break from communicating with you for a while while I figure myself out." That's adulting.

Make a fresh start

You don't have to cut her out of every photo or burn anything associated with her memory, but it's a good idea not to be surrounded by lots of stuff that reminds you of the relationship that is now over.

Have a spring-clean - pack things away, rediscover your surfaces, buy new sheets. You're moving into a new era so set the intention and step forward with confidence.

Be around people

Remember that there are plenty of other people in your life besides the person that has broken your heart.

Spend time with friends and family - lean into your support network.

Sure, you may not feel like you're going to be great company, but connecting with others helps you to move past an inward focus and engage with the world around you.

Get active

While the end of a relationship is tough, try to think of it as an opportunity for new beginnings.

What are some projects or hobbies that you can take up and get your teeth stuck into? It's a distraction tactic, but it's a really effective one.

It could be something as simple as signing up for a new yoga class, or it could be a new side-hustle that you've been wanting to try. Workshop options with your friends and try new things.

Rebound

Sure, you probably don't want to leap straight into another relationship, but putting yourself out there is exposure therapy at its finest. Get back on the horse, sign up for some dating apps, meet some new people, have some fun!