Is taking a break a good idea?
There could be several different reasons why you or your partner might be thinking about taking a break from your relationship. Have you talked about it? How do you feel about it? Here are some tips on how to handle the situation better.
To remember
👉 A break is a decision for both people. Talk openly and honestly about your reasons and what you expect from this time apart.
👉 It's not a miracle solution. Distance can help bring clarity, but it won't magically fix all the problems.
When there are problems in a relationship, we might think about taking a break. Some people are comfortable with that, while others aren’t.
Why taking a break?
What are the reasons why you or your partner might want to take a break? There are several: to get some distance, get your thoughts in order, clarify what you feel for the other person, etc.
However, if you’re doing it to explore other options or out of curiosity, it’s important to be honest and make sure your partner agrees.
How can I bring this up with my partner?
If you want to take a break, you need to be ready to handle the other person’s reactions. He/she might feel sad, angry, or rejected. He/she might even prefer to break up with you.
Are you ready to take the consequences or would you prefer to stay in the relationship and try to solve the problems? It’s up to you to see which side your heart comes down on!
What if the break turns into a breakup?
Let's be realistic: sometimes a break is the beginning of the end. If you fear that this might be the case, talk to your partner about it.
This way, you can approach the situation with more serenity and decide together on the best way to move forward, whether that's together or separately.
💡Need someone to talk to? Feel free to contact Tel-Jeunes. It's free, confidential, and the counselors are there to listen to you without judgment. You can reach us by phone, text, or chat.
