How long does it take to mend a broken heart? According to a recent survey, the majority of adults typically require approximately three months or 11 weeks to observe a positive transformation after a breakup. Researchers examined 155 young adults who had recently gone through failed relationships to arrive at these results.
The study revealed that 71% of participants agreed with affirmative statements such as “I have learned a lot about myself,” “I have grown as a person,” and “I am more goal-oriented.” These findings suggest that personal growth and positive emotions play a more substantial role in the aftermath of relationship dissolution than previously believed. Interestingly, this trend held true whether the individual initiated the breakup or not.
The researchers noted in a paper published in the Journal of Positive Psychology that their findings challenge preconceptions about the emotional experience of relationship endings. Additionally, a study from the previous year highlighted January as a common month for breakups. One significant reason cited for ending relationships in January is the desire for a fresh start, often coupled with the stress associated with the holiday season.
Conducted by vouchercloud.com, the study surveyed 1,881 men and women in Britain aged 18 and over who had experienced a breakup at some point in their lives. The results indicated that January is the most prevalent month for separations, with a fifth of respondents who had undergone a failed relationship reporting that it occurred during the initial month of the year.