Breakup in the Age of Isolation – How to Cope With all the Emotions

With people spending so much time at home right now, it’s only natural that relationships are being affected. While for some, the Coronavirus quarantine is a chance to reconnect and forge stronger unions, for others, the situation is proving to be an eye-opener.

But although the realization of a relationship not being the right fit can be tough, it might still be a blessing in disguise.

Some of the most common reasons for divorce include different expectations, lack of communication, and boredom. Spending a lot of time alone with a partner, old or new, can very much bring light to some of these issues. And even though in some cases these problems can be overcome, it’s still possible that the best option for everyone involved will be a breakup.

So how does one cope with the emotions brought on by these kinds of events – especially during stressful times? Here are a few tips on how to overcome a breakup during isolation.

Talk it out

One of the most important aspects of a healthy breakup is effective communication. Even though you’re ending a relationship, it’s still important to be able to talk to your ex. Especially if you have kids or if you will have to continue living together for the foreseeable future.

Although they’re not your favorite person right now, consider the fact that talking with your ex is something you need to do for your own sake.

If you take a look at the psychological research regarding traumatic experiences (which the end of a relationship definitely can be), you’ll find that addressing the issues is at the core of getting better. Of course, you don’t have to rush into becoming besties again, but open and honest communication might just help you get better.

It’s also not a bad idea to create a support system for yourself. Whether you do this by confiding in a close friend, seeking out the help of a therapist, or starting a journal, is entirely up to you. But rest assured, actively coping with any problem is going to make you feel much better than burying it deep down and fearing the moment it decides to surface.

Know that you’re doing what’s best for you

One of the things that might be weighing on you if you’re going through a breakup during isolation is how your decision will be accepted by the people around you. It’s normal to be nervous about taking this step when you feel like you won’t have the support of your family or friends.

Nonetheless, now is a time to remember that you have to do what’s best for you. Staying in a relationship for the sake of appearances can not only be difficult, but it may also have negative effects on your emotional wellbeing. Staying true to your core values, and seeking out a partner who shares them is the key to a happy, healthy life, and the least you deserve. So don’t be afraid to follow your heart – even if it seems impossible at the moment!

Take good care of your physical and emotional health

Going through a breakup is tough on its own. But, if you combine it with external stress, which this isolation period certainly is, it can definitely take a toll on your physical health. So don’t forget to take good care of yourself.

Choose to prioritize your wellbeing by eating well, exercising, and spending time outside (as much as possible). Not only will these actions strengthen your immune system, but they’ll also have a positive effect on your mood and emotional health.

To make yourself feel better, try to engage in activities that make you happy. Whether this is dedicating time to your favorite hobby, pampering yourself, or selling your engagement ring and spending the money on something that you’ve wanted to do for a long time.

Ending a new relationship

Of course, facing the end of a new relationship can be just as sad as when you’re dealing with a marriage or engagement breakup. When you realize that the connection you’ve been excited about and invested energy in isn’t right, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking it was a waste of time.

But, no matter how hard it is to cope with a breakup, it’s still a good idea to remember that the point of dating is never to find a person just so you’re not alone. Instead, it’s about meeting someone who shares your values and ideals, and who you can build a great life with. So, if you look at the situation from this point of view, the problems that arose during isolation were actually a blessing. After all, living with someone comes with numerous challenges, and overcoming them is only possible when both parties are equally dedicated to making things work.

Don’t lose hope

It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the negative feelings that often surface after a breakup. Nonetheless, try not to lose hope.

Don’t worry if you still haven’t found the right person. Rest assured that the time will come. Keep yourself open to new love and use your time alone to work on yourself, to identify your needs, and to learn how to take your time with anything new. This way, when the moment comes, you’ll be ready for a love that will last.