We’ve all been there at some point in our lives. The dreaded break-up. The days spent staring into space, trying to hold it together and the night times spent watching rom coms on the television and eating ice cream like it’s going out of circulation. And as the song suggests, we do get by with a little help from our friends. But as a friend, what are the best ways that we can help? How do you help a friend move on from a break-up? Read on and we’ll give you some ideas.
Be a shoulder to cry on and an ear to listen
The best thing you can do for your friend following a break-up is to just be there. Answer the phone when they call you and reply to the texts that they send you. Chances are they are feeling pretty lonely and the last thing they need is a friend who doesn’t appear to be around.
Be that shoulder to cry on and listen to them when they talk about their ex. Let them release all of the emotion because a problem shared is a problem halved. It’s worth remembering that not everyone likes to talk. If your friend is someone who likes to keep things locked inside, gently try and coax them into talking but at the same time, don’t push it too much. They will likely retreat even further if they are feeling pressured.
Let them know that they aren’t alone and that they won’t always feel this way and that they have lots of people around that care.
Give them something to look forward to
One of the worst things about a break-up is the times you find yourself with nothing to do when you would normally be spending time with your ex. Remember this and try and make plans with your friend for these occasions. Schedule in a weekend shopping trip or a night out. This doesn’t have to be anything crazy, just a simple meal out for steak in London and a trip to the cinema will do the trick. Anything to take their mind off what they would have been doing if things were different.
If finances allow, why not book a girls holiday? This is a great incentive and something for you both to look forward to together. The planning is sometimes as much fun as the actual holiday so do that together too.
When the time feels right, help her move on
It may not feel like it at the moment but the time will eventually come when you’re friend is ready to move on and begin dating again. When this time arrives, be encouraging and supportive. If the big wide world feels scary, suggest registering on a free dating site. Nothing ventured and nothing gained and all that! Setting up a dating profile on sites like Match Me Happy, and browsing through potential dates can be a lot of fun. Have an evening doing this over a bottle of wine and a takeaway for an evening full of optimism and giggles.
When the inevitable date night arrives, suggest a double date if your friend feels uncomfortable. Or, you can even go out and be in a bar nearby should she need you for any reason. Your girl will appreciate the support more than she probably realises.
Above all, the main thing you can do to help a friend move on from a break-up is be the kind of person you would want there for you should you find yourself in the same position. Be kind, patient and understanding and we’re sure it will be welcomed with open arms and never be forgotten.
Do you have any further tips to help a friend move on from a break-up? Leave them in the comments so others can benefit from your experience.
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