Hi @Eugenechill
First of all, thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings with us on this platform. It takes a lot of courage to be open about your feelings, and I commend you for that.
I’m truly sorry to hear that you’re going through this challenging situation. Breakups can be tough, especially when you discover that your ex has moved on quickly. I affirm your feelings, and I want to let you know that it is normal to feel hurt and vulnerable in such circumstances, even if the relationship was relatively short.
The prospect of running into your ex at a shared religious place can undoubtedly be anxiety-inducing, hence I encourage you to prioritize your own well-being during this time.
I would like to share some strategies to help you cope with these emotions and prepare yourself mentally for the possibility of seeing your ex:
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Acknowledge Your Feelings: This is a period of grief for you, so I encourage you to allow yourself to feel and process the emotions you’re experiencing. If you need to cry, just cry. If you need to roll around in bed and feel sad, it’s okay too. It’s okay to grieve the end of the relationship and the shock of their new involvement with someone else.
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Practice Self-Compassion: Please do be kind and gentle with yourself. I hope you will understand that healing takes time, and it’s okay to not be completely over the breakup yet. You are doing your best
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Set Healthy Boundaries: If seeing your ex at the religious place is causing you some distress, do consider talking to a trusted friend or family member who can accompany you and provide support. It’s also okay to establish some personal boundaries to maintain your emotional well-being.
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Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: I believe these techniques can help you to reduce anxiety. You can try deep breathing exercises, meditation, and grounding techniques as they can be particularly helpful in managing overwhelming feelings.
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Positive Self-Talk: Try to challenge the negative thoughts and replace them with more positive and empowering ones. Please do gently remind yourself of your own worth and the potential for a better future. You can try out this activity here for a start: Mental Support & Wellbeing Resources in Singapore to Improve Your Mental Health | mindline.sg
I encourage you to focus on your own healing, by continuing to engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. You can invest time in self-care, hobbies, and focus on your own personal growth.
Lastly, If your feelings become too overwhelming or persistent, consider speaking with a therapist or counselor who can provide you with specific coping strategies and emotional support. The professional will be able to journey with you through this season of your life and help you cope better.
I want you to know that it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, and it’s okay to seek help when you need it. Do let us know how you’re doing and coping, and keep us updated on your situation.
Take care and hear from you soon.