11 May 2023

Friendships are an essential part of our lives. You may have friends you have had your entire life, or work colleagues who became good friends over time. And it’s our friends we turn to for support, love, reassurance and advice. We share our deepest secrets, our happiest moments, and our most difficult challenges with our friends, but just like any other relationship, friendships can end. When a friendship ends, it can be a painful experience, and it's essential to understand the emotional journey that comes with it.

The emotional journey of friendship breakups can be challenging, and it's common to experience a range of different emotions. Here are some of the emotions you may feel when a friendship ends, and why:

Sadness

When a friendship ends, it's natural to feel a sense of loss and sadness. You may miss the person's company and the memories you shared. The end of a friendship can feel like a breakup, and it's normal to grieve the loss of someone who was once an important part of your life.

Anger

You may feel angry about the way the friendship ended or the actions of your former friend. You may feel betrayed, hurt, or let down. Anger can be a common emotion during a friendship breakup, as you may feel like your trust has been broken or your expectations were not met.

Guilt

You may feel guilty about the end of the friendship, wondering if you did something wrong or could have done more to save the relationship. Guilt can be a challenging emotion to deal with, as it can lead to self-blame and negative self-talk.

Loneliness

Losing a friend can leave you feeling isolated and lonely, especially if you spent a lot of time with that person. The feeling of loneliness can be challenging to deal with, as it can trigger feelings of low self-worth and self-doubt.

Relief

In some cases, you may feel a sense of relief when a friendship ends, especially if the relationship was toxic or unhealthy. Relief can be a difficult emotion to deal with, as it can make you experience conflicting feelings of guilt or shame.

Managing your emotions during a friendship breakup is essential for your mental and emotional well-being.

You should try to allow yourself to feel your emotions and not suppress them. Acknowledge your feelings and give yourself permission to grieve. Take care of yourself by engaging in activities that bring you joy and practicing self-care. This could include exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.

You could turn to other friends or talk to a trusted friend or family member about your feelings. Consider seeking professional help from a counsellor or therapist who can provide additional support and guidance.

Holding onto anger or resentment can be harmful to your mental and emotional well-being. Practice forgiveness, not just for the other person but also for yourself.

Try to focus on the positive memories and experiences you shared with your former friend. Remember the good times and appreciate the role your friend played in your life.