Coping with a break-up amid social distancing

There is no right time for break-up and we guess there will never be one. Throw in an invisible potentially fatal virus that is spreading at an expeditious rate globally, lost jobs or work-from-home shifts, economic uncertainty, being isolated in lockdown, worrying about daily essentials, and the normal breakup stress level multiplies by a thousand.

Beejal Gosai Psychologist, Mpower - Cell lists what one going through a breakup should expect and how to cope during this unparalleled time.

Difficulty in letting go: This is the most difficult step that comes with any normal breakup - be it holding on to the person or memories. In these times when we are forced to isolate ourselves from the outside world to add on to that woes of a lost relationship, are bound to make one feel lonelier than ever. We may tend to hold on to the memories that we created with a person more than ever which may help us feel less lonely. Focus on building a relationship with yourself.

Feel your feelings: Please allow yourself to grieve. You will grieve the person you once were, the person who was less heavy with this kind of feeling. You will grieve the future and the memories that you had thought you would make with them by your side. In the times when we are not allowed to have a physical social support, make the utmost use of the technology to receive support from your friends and families who will be ready to be with you from afar.

Let this situation sink in: When in a relationship, we often tend to be dependent on our partner or at some point in time, his or her presence helps us regulate our emotions or help us manage our lives in a more organized way and when that person is gone, it is very difficult to come into terms with the reality. Treat yourself with compassion and kindness but most importantly, be there for yourself.

Stop over thinking: After breakup, it's highly possible that you will think, rethink, rewind, replay, analyze and dissect past moments. Do not get trapped in questioning yourself 'what-ifs' in your head.

Bottom line: Even when they are the right thing to do and probably the most important thing to do, breakups are painful. If you follow through with your plan to breakup, make sure you stay focused on good self-care. Whether your turn to journaling, reading self-help books, or online therapy by seeking help to a professional, use this time to focus on your own healing process. (IANS)