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Floundering after the end of a brief relationship

MamaNayCasual Contributor09 Aug 2026, 12:49 pm AEST

Floundering after the end of a brief relationship

Im having alot of trouble atm... I started a relationship with someone back at the end of January - I initially told him I'd never ever ever be in another permanent relationship, but he convinced me that we were good together and we dated slowly. The relationship was good until end of May - he started to struggle and cut down on contact, then by mid June he with help from his counsellor decided he wasn't ready for a relationship atm. I have been floundering over the past couple of months, obsessed with "what did I do wrong", and really not coping with the end of this brief intense partnership. I know we will not get back together, but atm I just can't stand my own company, and finding it really hard to go back to being on my own - it feels crazy because I'd been on my own for years, now I feel lost.

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In response to: Floundering after the end of a brief relationship

wonderingalice1Moderator10 Aug 2026, 2:29 pm AEST

Re: Floundering after the end of a brief relationship

Hi @MamaNay

Thank you for sharing what's been happening. It's understandable to feel this way, especially when the connection felt meaningful and when the relationship may have ended somewhat unexpectedly. Even when a relationship may be brief, it can still leave a big space behind and feel confusing and disorienting.

It makes sense to think about where things went wrong to try make sense of things, when it feels like it somewhat came out of the blue (even when the other person's decision is more about where they're are at) It's also a hard place to be when thinking about all of this and trying to adjust being on your own again after feeling close to someone.

Please be patient and gentle with yourself, sometimes it can be helpful to think about what has been supportive in the past during difficult times. Exploring what helps you feel connected, and focusing on prioritising your own needs, treating yourself with care.

If things feel hard to manage it can help to get more more support; to talk things through and process everything, like a counsellor just thought I would mention it's always another support option too.

You aren't alone, i'm sure other members will also relate and share what has helped them find their footing again. Everyone experiences breakups differently, and there is no wrong or right way to go through it. This is a safe space and I hope you find this space supportive and continue to reach out and share, we are here alongside you.

Wonderingalice1

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