Young couple with backs to each other looking in separate directions.
Not all relationships last forever. Sometimes, things just don’t work out. Often, no-one is to blame.

Why do relationships end?

There are lots of different reasons why relationships end. Break-ups can be hard. Whether you’re the person finishing the relationship or not, a break-up doesn’t mean you’re a bad person or that there’s anything wrong with you. When you go through a break-up, you might experience several different emotions. You might feel:
  • Sad and / or lonely
  • Angry
  • Anxious
  • Shocked
  • Guilty
  • Relieved

If you are trying to cope with a break-up, it might help to...

Talk

Talk to a friend or an adult you trust

Keep busy

Keep busy with hobbies and activities you enjoy

Look after yourself

This includes being kind to yourself, reminding yourself of all the good things about being you and practicing self-care by looking after your physical and mental health – think eating well, sleeping well and screen-free downtime!

Avoid posting details

Avoid posting details of the break-up on social media and maybe consider 'muting' the other person on your social media profile so you don't have to see what they're up to.

Hands off​

No matter how big the argument is, or how angry a person may feel, it is important that people in the argument do not hit, push or touch each other in anger. Everyone has the right to feel safe. No one has the right to hit you and you don't have the right to hit them.​

It’s ok to be upset after a break-up but if it’s impacting on your life, or if you’re feeling down for a long time, it’s important to ask for help. Talk to an adult you trust, to a doctor, or to Childline. 

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