Are You a Heartbroken Teenager?

Your boyfriend or girlfriend has told you they don’t want to go out with you any more. You feel rejected, alone, unwanted and miserable. You had thought that this relationship would last forever and now it’s over. Let’s be honest – it’s a horrible feeling. Maybe the worst feeling you’ve ever felt. Perhaps you feel that life’s not worth living and you’ll never get over it. You probably feel that no-one has ever felt this way before.

It may sound impossible now, but you will get over it. It just takes time. And you’re not alone – almost everyone goes through this at some point in their life. It’s an important part of growing up and actually makes us stronger. What you mustn’t do is think that you have failed. Remember: relationships aren’t like exams.

If a friend came between you and your boyfriend or girlfriend and helped cause the relationship to end, you’ll be dealing with feelings of betrayal as well. If your parents or friends disapproved of your relationship, you might also feel humiliated and embarrassed about discussing how you feel. These feelings are normal, but it does help to talk. Try talking to your parents and friends – they may be more sympathetic than you think. Ask your parents about their first relationships. The chances are they went through similar experiences.

Don’t do anything impulsive. It might seem a good idea to go out and get a tattoo or your nose pierced, but you’ll probably regret it in a few days. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t treat yourself: how about buying some new clothes or getting a new hairstyle? Is there a film you’ve been wanting to see at the cinema for ages? Not sure whether to go to that party you’d been invited to? Go! And if you’re worried that your ex-boyfriend or girlfriend might be there, let them see you can have a good time without them. That’ll make you feel a lot better!

Sometimes couples who split up get back together and sometimes they don’t. Don’t sit around waiting for your ex to call to say they’ve made a big mistake and think you should start going out with each other again. The chances are that won’t happen, but it’s actually more likely to come about if you just get on with your life rather than sit at home waiting for the phone to ring. It may sound corny, but there are plenty more fish in the sea. You will – in time – find someone new. But don’t be tempted to rush into another relationship. This is called going out 1.59 with someone on the rebound. This kind of relationship rarely works, as you’re not together for the right reasons. Give it a little time before you start your next relationship.

Here’s one other thing to remember. You’ve just experienced one of the most traumatic things that people experience. From now on, things can only get better. Each day, you’ll feel slightly less unhappy. In a week, it will be bearable. In a month, you’ll be able to laugh about it. In a year, it will all seem ancient history. You’ve got a lot of life ahead of you – look to the future and go out and enjoy yourself!