A Heartbreak Is a heartbreak! Coping Strategies For When A Situationship Ends

In the past 3-4 years the dating game has completely revolutionised. Not only has the dating pool gotten much bigger but the options have increased tremendously, there are a lot more different and complicated grey areas that have gotten attached to dating. One of which is the famous trend - situationship.

Situationships are a trend that has seen a steep hike in the past couple of years. This dating trend is all about two people being romantically involved with each other without putting a label on it. Now while this totally can be a consensual thing between these two people, mostly it is about one wanting to be in a relationship and wanting all the benefits without the commitment.

Unlike friends with benefits, the boundaries are quite blurry when it comes to situationships. Feelings and emotions get involved and there is more emotional investment. But despite all that one invests into a situationship, an ending to it may feel very confusing. Even though its ending may feel like a heartbreak, one is also left confused as to whether or not one should even feel so much pain due to the non-existence of a commitment. For some, an end to a situationship can be much more stressful than a proper breakup due to the constant thought of 'what ifs'.

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How to cope with the end of a situationship?

Coping with the end of something which on paper was nothing can feel confusing and frustrating all at the same time. However, feelings don't really see labels and heartbreak has no particular foundations. So, here are some ways in which you can try to cope with ending things with someone you did not date 'officially':

Try acknowledging your feelings first

Recognizing and accepting your emotions is the first step in healing from heartbreak over a situationship. Allow yourself to experience the sadness, disappointment, and any other feelings that arise without judgment. Acknowledging your emotions is a crucial part of the process, as it validates your experience and helps you move forward.

Give yourself time to heal

Healing is a gradual process, and it's essential to be patient with yourself. Avoid putting pressure on your emotions to recover quickly. Give yourself the time and space needed to process the situation. Understand that it's normal to feel a range of emotions after a situationship ends, and these feelings will evolve over time as you navigate the healing process.

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Seek support from your close ones

Reach out to a support system that includes friends, family, or a therapist. Sharing your thoughts and emotions with others provides a sense of connection and understanding. A supportive network can offer diverse perspectives, advice, and a non-judgmental space for you to express your feelings. Sometimes, talking through your experiences can provide clarity and alleviate some of the emotional burden.

Establish clear boundaries

Setting clear boundaries with the person involved in the situationship can be crucial for your emotional well-being. This might involve limiting contact, unfollowing them on social media, or taking a break from communication. Establishing these boundaries allows you to create a space for healing without the added stress of ongoing interaction with the person who contributed to the heartbreak.

Reflect on what it was

Take a thoughtful and introspective approach to understanding the situationship. Reflect on the dynamics, your expectations, and the reasons behind its ending. Consider what you've learned about your own needs, values, and desires in a relationship. This reflective process can empower you with valuable insights, paving the way for personal growth and more fulfilling connections in the future.

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Focus on taking care of yourself

Engage in activities that promote your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Whether it's regular exercise, healthy eating, meditation, or pursuing hobbies, self-care plays a pivotal role in the healing process. Taking care of yourself not only supports your overall health but also reinforces the idea that your well-being is a priority.

Learn from this experience

Use the situationship as a learning opportunity. Reflect on both the positive and challenging aspects of the relationship. Consider how the experience has contributed to your personal growth, what you now value in a relationship, and how you can make healthier choices moving forward. Embracing the lessons learned can transform heartbreak into a stepping stone toward a more fulfilling future.

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Even though you may invalidate your own feelings with regard to an end to your situationship, it is valid for you to feel heartbroken and want to cope. Take your time and learn from the experience.