Taking a break in relationships: A healthy practice or a risky move?

“I want a break.” This has become quite a famous phrase in modern relationships. This is considered something less serious than a break up but more serious than a fight. Being in a relationship can sometimes feel like you have lost your individual self, so demanding for some space might seem like the right thing to do. But if not communicated right, taking a break can hurt your partner’s feelings and eventually stress you out and affect the emotional health of both. So, let’s take a look at if asking for a break in relationships is a healthy practice or not.

Relationships are an essential part of life, but they can also be challenging at times. Many people experience periods of uncertainty, doubt or stress in their relationships, and it is not uncommon for them to consider taking a break from their partner. Let’s examine the benefits and disadvantages of this practice.

Benefits of taking a break in a relationship

“What makes taking a break healthy or not is the reason for the break. If there are reasons that are causing a person to neglect their relationship, or there is a need to focus on some other large personal goals then making a choice to take a break can be healthy,” says Dr Kamna Chhibber, a clinical psychologist at Fortis Hospital. She adds that “it is also dependent on how the same is communicated and how the two people maintain their interactions and behaviours with each other.”

There are several reasons why someone might choose to take a break from their relationship. Some of the benefits of taking a break include:

1. Space to think: Taking a break can provide an individual with the space they need to reflect on their relationship and decide if it is the right one for them.

2. Time for personal growth: A break from a relationship can be an opportunity to focus on personal growth and development.

3. Reduced stress: If a relationship is a cause of stress or tension, taking a break can alleviate those feelings and help individuals recharge.

4. Opportunity to miss each other: Sometimes, taking a break can help partners appreciate each other more and recognize the value of their relationship.

Disadvantages of taking a break in a relationship

“A break can become unhealthy when it is a go to mechanism that is suggested after every small argument or when there is a clarity that one does not want to be with their partner but does not want to become the bad guy by breaking up,” says Dr Chhibber. Some of the risks of taking a break include:

1. Misunderstandings: Taking a break can lead to misunderstandings and confusion about the status of the relationship.

2. Jealousy: If one partner starts dating other people during the break, it can cause jealousy and resentment.

3. Communication breakdown: If communication is not maintained during the break, it can cause a breakdown in the relationship.

4. Lack of closure: Taking a break can lead to a lack of closure, leaving both partners feeling unresolved.

Is taking a break from relationships healthy?

Taking a break from a relationship can be a healthy practice if done correctly. It can provide individuals with space for personal growth and reflection, reducing stress and helping to recharge. However, it is essential to communicate clearly with your partner and set boundaries about what is allowed and what is not allowed during this period to avoid misunderstandings and further damage to the relationship. Ultimately, it is important to recognize that a break is not a solution to problems within a relationship and that underlying issues should be addressed directly.