Some people want to stay friends after a breakup, while others completely delete all images and evidence of their time together as a couple. We’re here to support the latter, and here’s why. Some people might call it petty, but it boils down to pure science.
When you break up with someone, you want them to disappear from your life completely, which means throwing away all proof they existed. It’s called “sanitizing” and it’s an extremely cathartic process. Sanitizing is an empowering coping mechanism for many that can help you move on from your heartbreak. So take control and stop scrolling through your ex S.O’s page – you deserve better.
1. It’ll stop those *cringe* questions
Nothing feels more awkward than being asked about your ex after the two of you have broken up. To avoid the endless stream of questions about where they are and how the two of you are doing, clearing your socials of them will clearly point to the fact that the two of you aren’t an item anymore.
2. Get some space
Personal space is essential post-breakup. We all become a new person as we move on from the past, coming into this new identity as a single person. A partner-free account signifies freedom and can be completely life-affirming. You don’t owe the world of social media an explanation of your breakup, but you can share pics of your fresh start.
3. It’s a purifying detox
This rings especially true for toxic relationships and abusive cycles. Sanitizing can help you cope and act as an exercise of sorts – with every image, you’re extracting this person from your life, and therefore muting the more painful reminders or difficult memories. Purge their existence and feel lighter immediately.
4. You deserve closure
It can feel impossible to move onto a new chapter when all you’re scrolling through is pics of adorable couples, even the one you used to be a part of. Closure isn’t possible if you keep seeing that person’s face, but a new start is easier once you take them off your page. Many people feel better after doing so.
5. Open the door for opportunity
How are you going to know that cute co-worker is also crushing on you if your account is littered with the ghosts of boyfriends past? People won’t know you’re not together anymore, so put up some alluring single photos instead that will let people know you’re back on the market. Take our advice and see – the DMs will start sliding in.
6. Time is necessary
Breakups are draining – physically and emotionally. By constantly being bombarded with photos of your ex, you can’t focus on your own healing journey. Redirect that energy and attention back inward. Give yourself the time you deserve to process and grieve this relationship.
7. Sometimes a total detox is required
Occasionally, digitally unplugging isn’t the worst. Especially when you’re trying to mourn the closing of this chapter. Social media is full of people throwing their best selves forward. Just remember these are carefully curated images and not an accurate portrayal of reality. Consider taking a complete break from social media. Make a playlist of your favorite songs and go for a hike instead!
8. You can process in better ways
Having an emo day of moping as you scroll through the good ol’ days is fine, but constantly staring at those reminders is not healthy. Instead, reach out to your support network, spend time with friends, laugh, and start a journal! This time is for self-reflection, not pining for what could have been.
9. Spending too much time on social media makes us obsessive
Of course healing from a breakup takes some time, but social media makes it way too easy to obsessively check up on your ex. This can spiral into a dark place fast. Losing a partner can often feel like withdrawing from a drug. Our love hormone suddenly drops, and in order to get that high back, we scroll through their page for hours. This just makes it much harder to gain closure – take a full break and unfollow.
10. It removes triggers
Let’s be honest – seeing a memory of the happier days that are no more can be kind of triggering. Delete old posts and images if they’re making it difficult for you to move on. You can even block them if it feels like their actions are affecting your mental health. It’s not dramatic – it’s self-care.