Friendship Break Ups: Are They Worse Than Romantic Break Ups? Tips On How to Deal

Sometimes, the time comes when you have to pull the plug on a relationship that no longer serves a purpose, regardless of who it is. Unfortunately, that can be a friendship. And losing a friend can be harder than losing a romantic partner.

Friendship breakups are difficult because it hurts when a friend turns foe. Severed friendships typically stem from disagreements, misunderstandings, and/or betrayal. Or sometimes there’s no beef at all and you just outgrow one another. It takes a ton of emotional understanding when it comes to coping with the loss of a bond that once held value and meaning, as well as accepting the fact that the fun times, memories, and connections are gone.

When it comes to romantic breakups, there are plenty of songs, movies, and books to help you navigate through it, but not so much when it comes to friendships. It’s something not really discussed. So here are some tips that might come in handy if you find yourself in this situation.

Prioritize your mental health & self-care: Nothing is wrong with having friendship expectations and standards. People must create boundaries for their mental health. Studies have shown that social relationships can either sabotage or support behavior change, so it’s best to have a good friend by your side as you grow and change in life. A great support system is needed and prioritizing your own self-care. You should stay positive and focus on your needs after a fallout or close of a chapter.

Don’t second guess it:  You know when someone is a bad person. There’s no room for bad character traits, such as lying, backstabbing, greed, jealousy, etc.  And if those traits exist, then it’s time to let that friend go. If someone has done something that doesn’t sit right with you,  then they don’t need to be around, especially if you’re on a good path; they’ll likely aid in your destruction. While it’s one thing to have a misunderstanding or disagreement, it’s another to have someone around you who isn’t a good person. Friendships require honesty, maturity, and overall good character, not someone who encourages your bad habits and wrongdoings.

Dead the beef if possible: If there is no resolution, agree to disagree and move on separately. Despite friendships falling apart, it doesn’t necessarily mean you wish evil on the person. People can talk it out without being friends again. Both sides can express what happened and carry on knowing there are no ill intentions for their former friend.

Make new habits and friends: It may be difficult at first, especially if you’re used to talking to this person every day or hanging out. But trying new things and creating new memories opens the door to independence and making new friends.

Own up to your mistakes and forgive yourself: If the bad blood falls on your hands, then learn from the mistake, apologize, and then forgive yourself. You can’t change what happened in the past, but you can own up to your wrongs and vow to become a better person and friend in the future.

Just remember, it’s all a part of life. Was what it was, is what it is!