The case for hard launching your heartbreak
Jul 31, 2024The case for hard launching your heartbreak
Because sometimes it’s healing to announce your ex-boyfriend’s infidelity on an Instagram carousel.
"While those sharing their breakup stories online may be met with an immediate sense of care and community, clinical and research psychologist Chandra Khalifian says publicly turning to social media for support after a breakup is like “playing a slot machine.” “You put a quarter in and pull the bar and someone may say something completely validating and kind of make you feel good for a moment or someone could say the most hurtful thing ever because they're not connected to you,” she says. “It can almost turn addictive.” Khalifian recommends seeking support in a more “authentic way,” such as a therapy group or solid friends you can lean on (not just the ones that will reply “omg” in your comments). It’s also worth noting that – despite social media giving the appearance that everyone needs a personal brand – not everyone has thousands of followers invested in intimate details of their lives. Some breakup reveals ultimately end up being a reveal for the relationship itself, attracting people who love social media drama instead of those actually invested in your emotional well-being."