[Chris]

Hi there, Michaela. I think that is a very strong thing to do. It sounds to me that you've put a lot of thought into this decision. Your mental health is the upmost priority, and should be your focus. Losing someone hurts, no matter the circumstances. From losing someone to death, to cutting ties with someone in general, to simply deciding that you need a short break from a person - it all takes a toll and often is accompanied by a feeling of loss, pain and/or sadness.

In my life, I have had to cut many ties. From friends, to random strangers, to even family members. I wish I could say that with each loss, it gets "easier". But that would be a lie. It does not get easier. But now looking back on those losses, I can see they allowed me the time to heal, to grow, and to move on. From that experience, you stop looking at it as a "loss", and begin to look at it as experience, and as growth.

Eventually, you too will be happy with your decision to pick yourself first. Continue to keep yourself safe, happy and growing.

Best wishes,
Chris