To feel an underlying sadness and hurt 20 months after breakup and especially at this time of year

[CuriousityMe]

So after an almost five-year relationship that ended in 2021, even though I'm past the heartbreak stage and have worked hard to get on with things, I realised today that although I don't cry anymore, I don't feel completely happy still and the hurt and sadness is still there at times. I feel like I still haven't bounced back to my old self really. Anyone else felt similar with any advice?

Hopeful bump!

Sadly it just takes time, sometimes a lot more time than you’d anticipated. There are certain times of year that are more difficult than others, Christmas being one of the harder times. I really struggled in summer when everyone was talking about holidays and I had nobody to go with. It does get easier though with time.

Hopefully things will start getting better soon.

Yes, as I say, I'm past the heartbroken stage and I really don't want to be thinking about him and how he went about ending things but feel I'm not quite there yet and feel I've lost my spark. I've also zero interest in dating (not that I've been asked!)