U Weekly. Serving The Ohio State University in Columbus Ohio

Getting over a break-up

By Sara Gentry

Picture this: You are alone in a dark room. A week's worth of used tissues are scattered on the floor and copies of "Titanic" and "The Notebook" are by your side. If this sounds familiar, chances are you have been through a break-up. This unfortunate life experience can leave you feeling depressed, angry and resentful, but the torture can be tamed by making proactive choices. It is important to take the time to morn the loss of a relationship, but dwelling on the situation will only darken your dismal outlook and drag you further into despair. The most important thing to remember is that time can heal a broken heart. In the meantime, here a few helpful hints for speeding up the painful process.

Ditch the junk food.

It may seem like ice cream and cookie dough are the universal medicine for heartache, but indulging in comfort food only temporarily fills the void and can leave you feeling tired and lethargic. Junk food is bad for your emotional as well as physical state, so try to skip the milkshake and grab a smoothie instead; they can curb your cravings for sweets while maintaining nutritional value. Consider Udder Chocolate from Inta juice; 12 ounces has only 170 calories and it has an impressive 10 grams of protein which can help prepare you for the next tip.

Hit the gym.

It is scientifically proven that exercise releases endorphins that can actually improve your mood. Not only does exercising make sense physically, but working hard can help you feel better about yourself, as well. Ohio State students have access to a plethora of workout facilities, including the Recreational and Physical Activities Center (RPAC), the Adventure Recreation Center (ARC), and Jesse Owens North and South Recreation centers.

Join a club.

If working out isn't your thing, OSU offers many organizations that can give you some perspective and even allow you to give back to the community. Associations such as the Red Cross and UNICEF are always looking for volunteers; plus, this is a great way to meet new people. RPAC also offers club and intramural sports — everything from archery to yoga. These sports can be a great way to release stress and work up a sweat.

Lean on your friends and family.

What better way to get your mind off things than by tossing a Frisbee in the oval or catching a movie at Easton. Don't be afraid to talk to your friends about how you are feeling — chances are they can relate to what you are going through, and might be able to offer some advice. You also might want to think about talking to a professional. The Counseling and Consultation Services at Ohio State provides individual or group therapy, and even has workshops composed of students who are having similar problems. The office is located on the fourth floor of the Younkin Success Center, and their hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Break-ups can be devastating, and pain is inevitable, but hopefully each day things will get better. We can't always control what life gives us, but we can control how we react to it.

Originally Published: October 22, 2008

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