Sometimes, breakups are harder to process when there’s no person or clear reason to blame.

Here’s what to know about a no-fault breakup.

None of your exs clothes are thrown from the balcony window; theres no cocktail thrust in their face.

alt

Often, anger is described as the secondary emotion whose root is sadness.

In breakups that arent someones fault, the primary emotion of sadness is easier to access than anger.

When there is no one to blame, you are left confronting the true grief of the loss.

Two people’s legs touch under a table as they work on their laptops.

psychotherapist and licensed marriage and family therapist

In breakups that arent someones fault, sadness is easier to access than anger.

With no one to blame, you confront the true grief of the loss.

Dr. Moali also says this dynamic can create a sense of powerlessnessand the endless replaying of what if?

Books on grief are seen floating against a backdrop of clouds.

Another negative-leaning result of a nebulous ending to a relationship is self-blame.

The shame that lingers after a no-fault breakup can be very detrimental.

Dr. Kederian recommends revisiting what youre looking for in a relationship.

alt

Be clear about how that person fit and didnt fit your criteria, says Dr. Kederian.

If possible, Dr. Kederian also suggests not waiting too long to continue to date.

A therapist who can help guide them with navigating this mental process.

Michelle Monaghan, Carrie Coon, and Leslie Bibb in The White Lotus, symbolizing toxic friendships.

psychotherapist and licensed marriage and family therapist

It can be difficult to know the best path forwardbut the following four steps can help.

4 tips for processing and moving on from a no-fault breakup

1.

Set boundaries with mutual friends

Its possible to preserve shared friendships while avoiding potentially uncomfortable situations.

alt

In doing so, it can allow you to process emotions without constant reminders of your ex.

However, a chance meeting may happen.

Acknowledge this possibility and prepare yourself emotionally for any unplanned meetings with your ex.

Courtesy Berkley Publishing

Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.