Getting Through a Summer Separation
Accept your emotions: You don’t have to plaster on cheer. Feeling sad, angry, or lonely is normal. Give yourself permission to feel what you feel.
Prepare: If you’re going to an event, plan your response to questions. If asked where your ex is, you might say: “We’ve gone our separate ways, but I’d love to enjoy today with everyone here.”
Set boundaries: Protect your energy. Say no to draining events or people who don’t support you. You don’t owe everyone your time.
Stay connected: Balance boundaries with connection. Reach out to trusted friends or family. Volunteer or join community events. Isolation makes heartbreak heavier.
Create new rituals: If old traditions are painful, start new ones. Celebrate on a different day, eat something new, or keep things simple. Small changes can create stability for years ahead.
Look after your health: Sleep, movement, and balanced meals protect your resilience. Watch alcohol intake, especially if you’re feeling fragile.
Give yourself small joys: A quiet walk, a new book, a gift to yourself — small moments remind you that you still matter.
Plan ahead: Make arrangements with friends, a lawyer, or a therapist before you need them. A plan reduces uncertainty and helps you feel more in control.
How to Support a Friend Going Through a Breakup
If someone you love is separating this summer, you can play a part in helping them get through:
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Check in gently: A simple “I’m thinking of you” can mean more than you realise.
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Include them: Don’t assume they won’t want to come. Extend invitations without pressure.
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Listen, don’t fix: Most people need to be heard, not handed solutions. Offer advice only if asked.
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Avoid judgement: Every breakup is complex. Resist taking sides or criticising.
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Offer practical help: A meal, childcare, or company can lift a huge weight. Instead of “I’m here for whatever you need”, try “I can come round Saturday afternoon to help with…”
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Respect boundaries: If they decline invitations or need space, accept it gracefully.
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Encourage support: Suggest professional help if they’re struggling to cope.
Your steady presence may be one of the most valuable gifts they receive this holiday season.
You Are Healing
There’s no perfect way to navigate a summer breakup. Some days will feel heavy, and others will surprise you with peace. Let yourself take both as they come. Healing rarely happens all at once — but it does happen.
If you’d like a little more guidance, download the Clean Break Roadmap — your free, step-by-step guide through separation, designed to help you feel calmer, clearer, and more in control this summer.
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