Breakups are not usually easy. The end of a relationship can turn your world upside down, triggering a large number and variety of emotions. Some people quickly accept the end of a relationship and move on, but others are unable to do so and end up suffering from the symptoms of depression. The person may feel that their heart is broken and as if they were outside the world, isolated.
Although it is a very difficult phase for the person, with adequate treatment it can be overcome, the important thing is not to ignore the symptoms for a prolonged period of time. In this Psychology-Online article we tell you how to overcome depression after a breakup.
Difference between sadness or depression due to a romantic breakup
Like the depressive symptoms They can range from moderate to severe, it is difficult to know if sadness or grief are normal reactions to a breakup or are a sign that something else is happening, such as depression.
It is normal to experience a mourning phase when you have suffered a loss, but that does not mean that every emotion you feel is a normal reaction. There are healthy and unhealthy symptoms after a breakup. Knowing the differences between these symptoms can help us determine whether we are experiencing depression or not.
Some symptoms that we could consider normal reactions could be:
- Anger and frustration
- Sadness and easy crying
- Fear
- Insomnia
- Loss of interest in activities
If these symptoms are part of the “normal” reactions to the breakup, your mood will improve little by little as you adapt to your new life. The amount of time each person needs to improve little by little depends on each person and their circumstances, you have to be patient. Although these are normal reactions experienced after a breakup, it is important to recognize when these reactions constitute depression.
Symptoms of depression due to a breakup
While feeling sad or in pain after a breakup is normal, you should see a professional. if symptoms do not begin to improve in a few weeks or if they even get worse. To be diagnosed with depression you must experience at least 5 of the following symptoms over a period of at least 2 weeks:
- Feel sad, empty or hopeless most of the day for several days
- Loss of interest in activities that were previously rewarding
- Loss of weight and appetite or increase in appetite and weight
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Significantly slower speech and movements
- Feeling without energy most of the time
- Low self-esteem
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Thoughts related to death even suicidal ideation
Depression can happen to anyone after a breakup, but some people are more at risk, such as those who have a family history of depression or other mood states. Other factors can contribute to depression after a breakup, such as hormonal changes, the loss of a job or a loved one.
How to get over a breakup: treatment
To know exactly how to overcome depression after a breakupyou should see a specialist if symptoms do not begin to improve within two or three weeks.
Psychological treatment
and interpersonal are two of the main therapies used in people with depression. Cognitive behavioral therapy consists of changing negative thoughts and changing them to more adaptive ones, since overcoming the relationship means that you do not have obsessive thoughts about the other person, nor do you ask yourself over and over again what went wrong. Sometimes, it is also advisable to use relaxation techniques or other behavior modification tools.
Psychopharmacological treatment
Based on the symptoms, the professional will prescribe antidepressants that will help cope with the emotions experienced. These include:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors: (prozac) and paroxetine (paxil)
- Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors: duloxetine (cymbalta) and venlafaxine (effexor)
- Tricyclic antidepressants: imipramine (tofranil) and nortriptyline (pamelor)
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors: tranylcypromine and phenelzine
Make sure you understand the risks involved in taking antidepressants. Some medications can cause sexual side effects, increased appetite, insomnia, and weight gain.
Talk to your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or worsen or if you have very serious side effects, as he or she may make a dose adjustment or change your medication.
Tips to get over a breakup for women and men
Some ways to deal with depression that are not part of professional help are:
- Carry out physical exercise: Physical activity can strengthen the immune system and increase your energy. Exercise also increases the production of endorphins, which improves your mood. It is advisable to do 30 minutes of physical activity at least three times a week.
- Stay busy– Explore new activities and try to keep your head busy. If you’re feeling depressed, going for a walk, reading a book, or starting a new project in your life could help.
- Sleep the necessary hours: Having a good rest can help you improve your mental state and cope better with the breakup.
How to Get Out of Breakup Depression: The Importance of a Support Network
It can be easier when we have the support from family and friends. You don’t have to go through that phase alone. Surrounding yourself with positive people who encourage you will be very good for you. If you feel alone or scared, call someone you trust and make plans with them.
- Avoid negative people Let them judge or criticize you, as they can worsen your depression and make the breakup even more difficult.
- You can also fight loneliness and depression after a breakup making new friends and reconnecting with those you have lost contact with. Any social activity that you find rewarding is appropriate, whether it is signing up for language, music, dance classes, joining a club, volunteering, etc.
- Even if your depression is not severe enough to need psychotherapy, joining self help group It can be a great tool to overcome depression after a breakup. There you will meet people who are in the same situation as you or who have experienced it, and you will also be able to learn techniques to deal with those emotions.
This article is merely informative, at Psychology-Online we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.
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