It's tough when a relationship ends - even if the breakup was your idea. Whether it's a marriage, a long-term commitment or even a brief affair, suddenly nothing is the same. Your identity as half of a couple has ended. You may feel lonely, sad, disappointed, or rejected and angry. Many men may have trouble handling these feelings and moving on with their lives.

At first, you may not want to accept the fact that your relationship is over for good. You may promise to change if only she'd take you back. Or you may blame her for the problems between the two of you. It may be hard to get back into the swing of your usual routine. Every little thing may bother you. You may feel that nothing is working for you. But you can take steps that will help you get through and get back in the game.

Surviving the end of a relationship

• Hang out with your buds. A night out with the guys or lunch with a buddy can help you reconnect with your pre-relationship life. Everyone has gone through a breakup. Talking about how you feel with your friends can help you feel normal again. It may not be easy to make plans and have a good time at this stage, but follow through. Even fake it if you have to. You will soon be back to enjoying your favorite things.
• Focus on yourself. Build up your physical and mental strength. Eat a healthy diet, work out regularly and get enough sleep. Don't rely on alcohol or drugs to feel better. Physical activity can be a great boost to your self-esteem and your mood.
• Kick back. You don't have to pour yourself into work to avoid your feelings. Give yourself the time and space to relax and regroup before you jump back in at full speed.
• Have fun. Shoot some hoops. Hit a bucket of balls. Visit your favorite art gallery. Take a drive. Enjoy your independence and freedom from obligations.
• Cool off. Don't rush into another relationship. It may feel strange to be single again, but having some solo time may be just what you need. Grab the opportunity to focus on yourself and what you want and need.

It's normal to feel grief and loss after the end of a relationship. Give yourself a healthy dose of time to recover. But, if you are really down or you can't seem to shake it, talk to your doctor. You might be depressed.

Even though it may not seem possible right now, you can get through this hard time and come out whole on the other side. But don't sit back waiting for time to take care of everything. Take steps to deal with the present and get ready for the future.