Break-ups can be really hard, but if the history of music is any indication, heartache is a common experience that we all go through and we all have our own ways of overcoming them. Music is proof there is a lot of heartbreak out there. Broken hearts are the common theme among most genres of music. For many people, music is a valuable coping mechanism to heal from difficult times, especially break-ups. Whether it’s creating the music or listening to it, music may be the answer. Curating a break-up playlist and jamming out to relatable songs can be a great way to cope with the loss of a relationship and to move through the stages of grief.
During breakups we go through the five stages of grief. These stages include denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and finally acceptance. Everyone experiences these stages in a different order and at a different pace. When experiencing grief, in this case during a breakup, you may not have the best words to express what you’re going through, but most likely there’s a song that’s lyrics express exactly how you feel in that moment. A recent study shows that listening to sad music during a break-up has many emotional benefits. Music makes us feel understood, which reduces feelings of loneliness, which is important during a breakup. Studies also show that music affects dopamine levels in our brain which can boost our mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Music can take you on a journey and help you release those difficult emotions you go through during a breakup so you can heal.
It’s good to listen to songs that relate to how you feel because it helps you feel understood and less alone during a difficult time. In the beginning of a break-up, when you’re most likely experiencing stages of denial and depression, it may feel good to listen to sad songs that express your sadness of the loss of the relationship. It’s okay to break out those tissues and cry along to the lyrics. Allow yourself time to be sad and grieve the relationship with melancholy songs. If you feel angry, it may help you to feel better listening to angry songs to let out those strong emotions of anger. Eventually when you begin to move on to the stage of acceptance, listening to songs that are empowering may help you to gain the strength and courage to move on. During this stage, uplifting songs will help boost your mood.
Everyone’s taste in music is different, but here’s some songs that you’ll want to cry to and others that will empower you to get over your past relationship and finally move on.
Call Out My Name – The Weeknd
Grab those tissues and cry it out.
Too Good at Goodbyes – Sam Smith
A sad song to finally say goodbye with.
Let Her Go – Passenger
It’s time to let her go.
Cry Me a River – Justin Timberlake
When you’re feeling angry and have no sympathy for your ex.
Done – Frazey Ford
Yes, you’re done. Now sing it.
Foolish Games – Jewel
Her sultry voice makes you feel your heartbreak and you’re over their games.
Unbreak My Heart – Toni Braxton
Some 90s R&B to belt out that heartbreak to.
Nothing Compares 2 U – Sinead O’Connor
A true classic you can sing along and cry to.
Dancing on my Own – Robyn
Dance like nobody’s watching with this tune to feel empowered.
I Will Survive – Gloria Gaynor
Feel empowered with Gloria, because she’s right, you will survive.
Best Thing I Never Had – Beyoncé
Queen B knows how to handle heartbreak.
If you are having a difficult time getting over a breakup, you’re not alone. Everyone experiences heartbreak at least once in their life. You can heal and overcome it. Music is a great way to express the emotions you’re going through and heal from a broken heart. However, break-ups are difficult, and everyone copes with them differently. It may be helpful to talk to someone about what you’re going through. MyTherapist is a licensed online counseling service that can match you with a licensed therapist who can give you the support and guidance that you need so you can overcome your broken heart. If you’re having difficulties moving on from a breakup, reach out and talk to someone. They can help.
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