Relationships: Is it normal to feel relieved after a breakup?

Breakups often lead to a deluge of feelings, sometimes all at once, sometimes spaced out over months or years, some big, some small, some confusing. Photo: TNS/Dreamstime

Dear Anna,

So, I just got dumped. I was totally expecting to be a complete mess, feeling all broken and down in the dumps. But, guess what? I’m feeling so freakin’ relieved! Like, no joke, it feels like a huge weight’s been taken off my chest.Now, I can’t help but wonder if this is just me trying to trick myself or if my relief is actually for real. Am I in denial, or is this chill vibe I’ve got going on legit? It’s pretty wild how your feelings can get all tangled up and make you second-guess yourself, huh? – Confused But Relieved