Try not to linger on your feelings for too long, though. After listening to a few sad songs, turn off the music and go for a walk! You don’t have to feel everything at once to get through this. [3] X Research source As hard as it is, remind yourself that you can’t control your family’s behavior. You can, however, control how you respond to it. Focus on your own emotional growth to come out of the grieving process feeling resilient. [4] X Research source Try to remember that your family’s rejection isn’t an indication of your self-worth. [5] X Expert Source Asa Don Brown, PhD, DNCCM, FAAETSClinical Psychologist Expert Interview. 3 February 2022.

Use the journal to rebuild your self-esteem after the rejection. Family rejection really hurts. To prevent it from affecting your self-worth, write down all the things that you like about yourself. Next time you feel down, look at your list![8] X Research source Journaling can also help you recognize certain triggers. Read through your old entries and take note of the days you felt especially sad. See what they all had in common, and look at what changes you can make to avoid those triggers. [9] X Trustworthy Source University of Rochester Medical Center Leading academic medical center in the U. S. focused on clinical care and research Go to source

Other positive affirmations you can use include “I’m capable of great things,” “I deserve to be treated well,” and “I love myself. "

Thinking negatively can prevent you from finding happiness because you stop noticing the good things in life. [13] X Research source

If you experienced any form of abuse, websites like https://www. thehotline. org/ and https://www. rainn. org/ can provide additional resources to help and support you.

Avoid turning to drugs or alcohol to feel better. They won’t help in the long run and can leave you feeling worse than before.

Have a movie night with friends if you used to enjoy movie nights with your family. Invite your friends over for a family dinner. You can even spend holidays with a group of close friends! To make new friends, try volunteering in your community, joining a local book club, or connecting with others online.

If you still need help processing how you feel after talking with your friends or don’t know a good person to talk to, talk to a professional instead. A therapist or counselor can give you strategies to cope.

If they make you feel unsafe or don’t respect your boundaries, it’s okay to take communication with them off the table. As painful as it may be, going no contact might be the best decision for your safety and mental health. [20] X Research source You don’t have to make your decision immediately. If you’re not sure how you feel, take some time to figure out the boundaries that will make you safest and happiest. [21] X Research source

Sometimes it takes a little bit of time to find the right therapist or counselor. If the first one you see isn’t a good fit, don’t get discouraged. Try to find another professional in your area that can be a better help to you!