Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Economic Times
The Economic Times
National
Mukesh Thapliyal

BIZARRE: Psychology explains why people seek closure after breakups and why moving on often feels so difficult - What They Never Told You

Breaking up with someone is about more than just ending a relationship. For many people, the hardest part comes afterward, when they're left with questions that may never be answered. Why did it end? Was there something I could have done differently? Did the other person really love me? These thoughts can stay in your mind for weeks, months, or even longer, making it difficult to move on. That's why many people look for 'closure' - a feeling of understanding or acceptance that helps them make peace with the breakup and begin the healing process.

According to psychologists, the need for closure is deeply connected to how the human brain processes uncertainty and emotional loss. When a relationship ends without clear explanations or mutual understanding, the mind naturally tries to fill in the missing pieces. Research suggests that unresolved endings can trigger rumination, emotional distress, and even symptoms similar to physical pain. While finding closure can be helpful, experts also point out that healing does not always depend on getting answers from an ex-partner. Sometimes, the healthiest form of closure comes from within.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.