15 mistakes that can make a breakup feel even worse — and what to do instead

People often get stuck in the past when trying to move on from a relationship (stock photo).Katrin Engel / EyeEm/Getty Images

• Breakups are never easy, but sometimes you might be making things harder on yourself.
• Things like dating too soon, or not not going no contact with your ex can make the experience drag.

Chances are you've been through at least one breakup in your life. Nobody finds them easy, but because of the way we're wired — and our desire for connection — we can fall into traps that make breaking up even more difficult than it has to be.

"Breakups happen for a whole host of reasons," said Jennifer B. Rhodes, a psychologist, dating coach, and founder of Rapport Relationships. "And I think someone's background and experience with relationships in general might dictate their behaviour during the course of a breakup."

Insider spoke to relationship experts about the biggest mistakes people make when they are trying to end their relationships, and how this can have a negative impact them and their future relationships.

All breakups are different, and there are no set rules, but sometimes it's helpful to know what you really shouldn't be doing. Here's what they said: