Should you block your ex on social media?
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So, my ex and I broke up a few weeks ago, and it was amicable and we both want to be in each other's lives, but I'm having a really hard time with it still. Social media makes it even worse because I get daily reminders that we're not together anymore. I don't want to hurt her feelings by unfollowing or blocking her. But what do I do here? I want to heal from the breakup without being bombarded with her posts. Any tips are helpful. (Please don't say "just stay off social media" lol be real)
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Should you block your ex on social media?
Expert Comments
It's important to digitally detox from your ex after a breakup. Unfortunately, your brain is primed for obsessive behavior during this time, and your motivation system is seeking dopamine. Thus, whenever you replay that romantic video of your vacation, stalk their social media, or text them, you fall into a mental trap that keeps you addicted.
Before you look at old photos or check the ex's Instagram, stop and ask, "Am I being kind to myself right now?" You know the answer. Replace the urge for connection with another behavior that forces you to be present. This may mean you call a friend, go for a jog, or write a letter of gratitude to someone you love. The first few times you divert your behavior, it will feel contrived and highly challenging, but the more you practice replacing the self-sabotaging urge with a healthy practice, the easier it becomes.
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Before you look at old photos or check the ex's Instagram, stop and ask, "Am I being kind to myself right now?" You know the answer. Replace the urge for connection with another behavior that forces you to be present. This may mean you call a friend, go for a jog, or write a letter of gratitude to someone you love. The first few times you divert your behavior, it will feel contrived and highly challenging, but the more you practice replacing the self-sabotaging urge with a healthy practice, the easier it becomes.
It’s only necessary to block your ex on social media if remaining connected with him or her online interferes with your growth and healing process. If you’re constantly stalking their page by visiting it on a daily basis, scouring the comment section and his or her newly added friend list, it may be a good idea to at least unfriend him or her. However, if it doesn’t interfere with anything at all, it’s perfectly fine to stay friends with your ex on social media.
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Reader Comments
Hey if you don't want to see them on your social media for a while but you also don't want to hurt them if they see that you unfollowed or blocked them, you can just mute their profile! They won't able to see that you muted them and you won't see their posts. If and when you feel ready to see them on your feed again, you can always unmute them. Good luck with your healing process!
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So sorry about your breakup. Sounds like you and your ex parted on good terms and approached your breakup with maturity. If your ex is understanding, they will understand that you're unfollowing or blocking them because you need to heal, not because you hate them or anything. I'd say that if you need to block them to move on that you should, and not worry so much about how they might perceive it.
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Votes Yes
It is best to move on and not have to think about your ex right after you break up.
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