How to Help Your Guy Best Friend Get Over a Heartbreak
STACEY ELKINS
LIFE
Watching a friend go through heartbreak after a breakup is difficult. You, as a friend, can be a great support system. While you can't take your friend's pain away, you can help him through the painful period of time following the end of his relationship.
1 Offer Support
Your friend needs to grieve the loss of his ex. As he grieves, he may experience a variety of feelings, such as sadness, anger, rejection and confusion. While these emotions are normal, he may feel alone in his experience of them. Let your friend know that you are there for him. Encourage him to share his feelings. Some people find that talking to trusted individuals who understand the situation can help ease the pain, says TeensHealth in "Getting Over a Break-Up." Be sympathetic and patient. It can be difficult for a guy to open up and share his feelings; if he doesn't want to talk, don't pressure him. Your presence may be support enough. As the pain decreases, he may be willing to discuss how he feels.
2 Encourage Your Friend
People who are heartbroken may blame themselves and exaggerate their faults, reports TeensHealth. His self-esteem having taken a hit, your friend may feel unlovable or worthless. Don't disregard or minimize his feelings. Remind your friend there are people in his life who care about him. Make note of his positive qualities and share them with him. For example, you might tell him that he is funny, smart or athletic.
3 Keep Him Busy
Your friend may feel consumed with sadness, but encourage him to stay busy. Find an activity he enjoys and do it with him. For example, play video games, watch a movie or play basketball. This will help prevent him from wondering what his ex is doing, who she's with or how she's feeling. If he needs to spend some time alone, respect his decision.
4 Other Considerations
Encourage your friend to take good care of himself. Being healthy can help one to heal faster than if he were to become unhealthy, reports the website Musings of a Counselor in "How To Help a Friend Through a Breakup." Remind your friend to get plenty of sleep, eat healthy food and exercise. Going for a bike ride, running or engaging in any form of exercise helps to relieve stress and generally improves mood. Suggest your friend refrain from calling or texting his ex, or looking at her Facebook page. In the post "How Do You Heal a Broken Heart" on the Safe Place to Talk website, Dr. Helen Zielinski Landon endorses no contact with an ex after a breakup. If your friend has contact with his ex, it can slow down the healing process.
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