Break-ups are awful. No matter when they occur, but they might feel especially unpleasant when they do so only a few weeks before what is supposed to be the loviest, doviest day of the year.
A breakup around February 14th feels like one of the worst possible outcomes for the end of a relationship, regardless of whether you love Valentine’s Day or just love to despise it. The Valentine’s Day season is one of the only seasons where it’s virtually impossible to hide from messages of romance and lifelong love.
For those going through a break-up, Dr. Sherry Benton, a psychologist and the creator and chief science officer of TAO Connect, has some advice on how to cope.
Lean on your support system
No matter when a breakup occurs, the people you love will support you through it. Call someone and put together your emergency support group. Your best friend or a member of your close family will be the perfect person to cry on and will also be the one to make you forget that Valentine’s Day even exists.
Spend less time on social media
Go easy on the Facebook and Instagram scrolling. While you’re trying to mend your broken heart, you shouldn’t have to deal with mushy Valentine’s Day posts and couple pictures.
Find a positive distraction
Don’t mope around aimlessly. Instead, make a plan to do something that will truly aid in your recovery. Get outside with a buddy or schedule a massage for Valentine’s Day. The simpler it will be for you to get through February 14 the more distracted you are.
Also see: Should you end your relationship if you did not receive anything for V-day?
