Top 5 tips for getting over a college breakup

Submitted by Lisa Steadman on August 24, 2007 - 12:26 pm

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Like the song says, breaking up is hard to do.  And it can be even more difficult in close-knit communities like college campuses where social activities may just keep your ex close by.  As college students head back to school this fall, the following tips should help them handle a breakup during the school year: 

Create new boundaries with your ex

Because of the close-knit college setting, it’s not always easy to cut your ex out of your life. But that doesn’t mean you can’t heal and move on.  Instead, create new boundaries with your ex.  Don’t call, email, or seek out your ex.  And if you run into your ex — in class or in a social setting — be friendly and courteous but don’t fall into your old pattern of familiarity and intimacy.  Don’t talk about how you’re handling the breakup or if you’re dating anyone, and definitely no booty calls.

 

Recruit a Boo-Hoo Crew

Your Boo-Hoo Crew is the key to surviving and thriving after a breakup.  These are your friends who will be there for you 24/7, who will keep you from calling your ex in a moment of weakness, and will remind you why you’re better off without him or her.

 

Find healthy ways to fill your free time

While emotional eating, crying, and moping are all common survival tactics following a breakup, you should also fill your free time with healthy activities. Go out with your girlfriends for a night away from where you might run into your ex.  Join a new club or organization that’s in no way affiliated with your ex.  Just do something that makes you feel good about yourself.  That’s the most important thing right now – to remember that you are fabulous, and there are plenty of fun ways to fill your free time now that Mr. or Ms. Ex is no longer in the picture.

 

Avoid rebounding and/or revenge

Nothing makes you look like more of a sore loser after a breakup than a blatant rebound or revenge tactic.  Skip the drama, and instead focus on your recovery.  When you need help, ask your Boo-Hoo Crew for support.

 

Become a breakup rock star

Above all else, stay strong. Don’t let the breakup be the thing that defines you and your college experience.  Let it be the motivation for becoming the best “you” possible.  Give yourself permission to heal and move on and become a true breakup rock star.