5 Helpful Tips for Supporting a Friend Through a Break-up
Ah, break-ups. They’re never easy💔
Chances are, for the person going through one, it’s going to hurt for a while before it gets better.
While there’s no immediate cure for heartbreak, there are some ways you can show support for a friend going through a break-up. Things may not turn around overnight, but your small doses of care and support may be what your friend needs!
Here are 5 helpful tips we’ve collected for you!
1) Offer a listening ear
Broken relationships often involve difficult emotions, and can be confusing or overwhelming to navigate. Listen patiently and attentively to your friend as they process these difficult feelings, and respond with empathy! As much as you feel compelled to, avoid giving advice unless asked to. Instead, try asking questions to help clarify their thinking and remind them that they matter despite feelings of self-doubt or inadequacy.
2) Give them space, but don’t forget to check in with them
If your friend is mourning the loss of a relationship, they’ll likely need time to get used to change in their lives. This could mean isolating themselves to be alone to grieve. While it’s important to give your friend space, invite them out and check in with them to ask how they’re doing. This communicates your care and concern for their well-being, and just be what they need during this trying time!
3) Look out for them
Often, the empty space left after a break-up can be painful to face. Temporary distractions like a night out with friends or a day of retail therapy could be helpful for the time-being, but it’s important to find sustainable, healthy coping mechanisms for the long haul. Keep an eye out for your friend during this process and gently offer helpful suggestions if you know any.
4) Drop them a surprise delivery of something you know they like
It could be a personalised self-care package or even something as simple as their favourite drink. While the main healing process boils down to the individual, you could show your love and support by sending them something they enjoy, bringing encouragement and a smile to their face during this difficult time!
5) Spend time with them!
Hanging out with your friend provides them with an outlet and a change of environment, helping them ease back into the swing of things. It’s also a healthy way of coping with a break-up, since they’re kept occupied and partaking in social activities instead of moping about at home. Try asking your friend out for a meal or even for some exercise. A breath of fresh air can do wonders!
Ultimately, we hope this collection of tips will help you better support your friend as they undergo a rough period of their lives, and be there for them in substantial and meaningful ways. Keep on keeping on, you’re doing great! 🌻