How to deal with heartbreak in lockdown
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to heartbreak. Some couples like 24-year-old Rashi Shah (name changed) and her beau of five years Rajeev Verma (name changed) could not survive the stress. Leading them to part ways. Rashi says, “We had been together for five years. However, since the lockdown, we were having communication issues. There was more talking but less understanding and listening. As a result, we came to a point where we felt things were simply not working out. However, instead of addressing it, Rajeev chose to ghost me.”
The fallout of this is Rashi is still trying to find closure but is struggling with it as she sometimes ends up blaming herself for things not working out.
Coping with heartbreak in lockdown
Break-ups in the midst of a pandemic can be doubly traumatic for some couples. On one hand, they are coping with the stress and pressures of surviving COVID-19 and its fallout. On the other front, they have to process the heartbreak, and the emotions associated with it. Clinical psychologist Seema Hingoranny cautions against navigating this emotionally charged environment alone. She says, “Many people underestimate the emotions they are likely to experience post break-up. If the couple was together for a few years, they are likely to experience a gamut of emotions, which in some cases can also lead to them going into depression.”
Seema advices individuals to have a support group (friends, family or even a spiritual guide, who can be there for you when you feel really low). Here are some of her tips that can help.
Guide to surviving a
break-up in a pandemic
It’s normal to be on an emotional rollercoaster after a heartbreak. However, it’s equally vital to have a support group that can help you make it through. Here are a few pointers that can help you navigate this phase.
Don’t be a recluse
Don’t cut off lines of communication with your loved ones. If you are feeling low, it’s important to seek support from someone you trust. Approach a mental health professional, a spiritual guide, an aunt or elder in the family, or a friend. Don’t try to get through this by yourself.
Avoid suppressing your emotions
It’s important to acknowledge your feelings and not suppress them.
Don’t expect closure from your ex
There is nothing wrong with trying to find answers to understand why the relationship fell apart. However, don’t expect answers from your ex. As they may not necessarily give you the closure you seek. Instead, find closure in your mind, and avoid going on a guilt trip.
Don’t react impulsively
Don’t use social media as a platform to vent your emotions, as you may end up saying something you may regret. Instead, pen down your thoughts in a journal. So, that you can use that as an outlet to express your feelings and emotions.
Channel your negative feelings into something positive
Use the time in lockdown to focus on your work, your mental well-being and on all that’s good for you and for your growth as an individual. Pursue a creative hobby that can take your mind off things and help you express yourself creatively and productively.
