How to Grieve a Relationship Ending
- Wise Psychic Counsellor
- Oct 23
- 3 min read
Grief differs between people and situations, but the steps for moving on are universal.
No matter how long you’ve been with a partner, a breakup can feel like a big ol’ sucker punch to the stomach — and heart. The emotions that follow the end of a relationship can range from sadness and despair to anger and frustration. Some people may develop depression or experience post-traumatic relationship disorder, while others might rely on vices like alcohol to cope.
But can these responses be classed as grief — and, if so, what can be done about them?
Is it OK to Grieve a Relationship?
Grief is primarily associated with the death of a loved one — but it’s not limited to this event alone. It’s perfectly normal to grieve over a relationship and not feel ashamed or awkward about it.
“Grief is very much a natural human reaction to a relationship ending. It is the process of working through a broken heart.”
Even without a physical loss, you’ve still lost something deeply significant:
The loss of a current way of life
Mourning the memories of the past
Letting go of the hopes and dreams of the future
Stages of Grief After a Breakup
You may have heard of the “five stages of grief,” first coined by psychiatrist Elizabeth Kübler-Ross in 1969:
Denial
Anger
Bargaining
Depression
Acceptance
However, it’s important to note that these stages were originally developed in the context of terminal illness. Breakup grief is not linear, and it’s common to fluctuate between feelings:
One day, you might feel incredibly sad; another day, you may feel relieved or even happy.
Other reactions can include:
Reduced concentration
Emotional numbness
Changes in sleep or appetite
Emotional ups and downs
Factors That Can Affect Grief
Grief is highly individual, and many factors influence its intensity:
Relationship intensity:
Stronger emotional connections often result in deeper grief.
Relationship length:
The longer the relationship, the more memories and emotional associations, which can prolong grief.
Hormones:
Hormonal bonds, like those formed through parenting or shared intimate experiences, can intensify grief.
Gender:
Everyone experiences grief. Gender stereotypes may affect how people express it, but the emotional experience is universal.
How to Deal With Feelings of Grief
Take your time:
There is no set timetable for grieving. Everyone’s process is unique, and that’s okay.
Don’t avoid your feelings:
Suppressing grief can worsen emotional distress. Acknowledge and honor your feelings.
Seek support:
Family, friends, or therapists can offer listening ears, encouragement, and comfort.
Engage in self-care:
Rediscover activities that bring joy, try something new, and focus on your well-being.
Create new memories:
Shift your attention to new experiences — try different routines, visit new places, or explore new hobbies.
Grief after a breakup is natural, regardless of whether you initiated the split. Emotional responses vary based on:
Relationship length and intensity
Reasons for the breakup
Attachment issues
Although grief may feel overwhelming, coping strategies and time can help you navigate toward calmer seas.
“You may still be hit with a wave at times. But the more you accept and work through the grief process with honesty, the more you will be able to see the wave coming — and I know there are calm seas ahead.”
Wise Psychic Counselling Bio
Wise Psychic Counselling provides compassionate, intuitive guidance to help clients navigate life’s challenges, relationships, and personal growth. Through psychic insight, counselling, and practical strategies, Wise Psychic Counselling empowers individuals to gain clarity, heal emotional wounds, and make informed decisions with confidence.
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