Depression after a breakup
After a relationship ends, it is normal to feel sad, empty and disappointed. Some people feel abandoned and cheated. Break-ups are not easy for some people, and they react to heartbreak with a heightened emotional state. If you or someone you know has been having a rough time post a split, it is best to ascertain that the ‘normal’ does not translate to ‘symptoms of depression’. Watch out for some warning signs as listed in the next section.
Signs and symptoms of depression after a break-up
To grieve on a loss of a relationship is quite normal, and you can be sad angry or even frustrated. These are healthy symptoms of a break up. Crying, having a sense of loss, lack of interest in activities of daily life are all signs that you are in the healing period after a break-up. Now how much time a person takes to get over a break-up can differ from person to person. However, if even after a few weeks of grieving and feeling sad, you do not feel better and are not adjusting to your life, it can be that you have crossed the line to depression. Depression can range from mild to severe, and the below warning signs should not be left un-noticed-
Feeling despair, sadness, hopelessness and emptiness for many days together Sudden weight gain or weight loss; loss of appetite Sleeping too much or too little Feeling worthless, abandoned, alone Difficulty in concentrating, focussing or making decisions Feeling sapped out of energy Loss of interest in things or activities you enjoyed earlier Suicidal ideation, thoughts of death and dying
If you or anyone you know has the above symptoms for atleast 2 weeks, it is best to seek professional medical help.
What can be done to come out of depression after a break-up?
Depression can happen to anyone – but some people are more prone to it. Some people are not well-equipped to handle heart breaks and collapse easily, while some stay strong and steer themselves away from situations that cause them pain. There is no ironclad science of breakup, but there are some things that can be followed to make getting over post-breakup depression bearable.
What happens if depression is not treated?
Emotional pain can channelise itself into physical pains and discomfort if left untreated. Many people take to alcohol and drugs to escape their feelings. Many start experiencing physical pains and aches which cannot be explained. Some people indulge in emotional eating which can cause further complications like weight gain, diabetes and the like. Panic attacks may often surface, and you may have problems at work/school or with family and friends. Depression eats into everything you have in life, hence, it is very important to recognise the signs at the earliest and seek help. The most important thing to remember here is, the end of a relationship is not the end of your life.
