By Jennifer Oikle, Ph.D., Dating Diva for GalTime.com It’s often tempting to remain friends with an ex, especially right after a breakup when you are still used to relying on their emotional support. But is it wise? The answer, as with most things, is: It depends.
![Why Holding ON To Your Ex Means Holding OFF On Your Life [EXPERT]](http://images.tangomag.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/node-full/images/independence20next20exit.jpg "Why Holding ON To Your Ex Means Holding OFF On Your Life [EXPERT]")
Neil Sedaka had it right. Breaking up IS hard to do. But WHY is it so hard? Because we are sentimental beings, desiring of connection. Because we’ve been told that ‘partnering’ is the path to happiness. Because it just feels good to have your best pal around and because there is no rule book or magic pill for getting rid of the longing. When going through a break up, we are in fact, experiencing a death. While it may just be emotional, it carries all of the hallmarks of a physical passing.
Should you be friends with your ex? It's an age old question, but the answer isn't always so clear. On the one hand, your brain thinks it's an awful idea. On the other hand, your heart doesn't want to completely cut this person out of your life just yet. So what do you do? Contest: Tell Us Why You Need To Break Up With Your Ex—And Win!
They call 'em an "ex" for a reason. And while we'd love to break up with all of our boyfriends and find ourselves on good, positive terms with them soon after, sometimes feelings get in the way, drama ensues, and you find yourself on an irritating emotional rollercoaster you thought you had left behind when the relationship ended.
Should you try to be friends with your ex? Seriously, what's the upside? What's the downside? YourTango Experts clinical psychologist Dr. Adam Sheck and dating expert Marni Battista talk through the logistics and relative merits of maintaining close ties with a former flame or even spouse.
