Breaking up with a romantic partner is pure agony.  While it’s worse to be dumped, ending a longterm relationship is no picnic either.  In both cases, our brains and bodies experience the same kinds of effects that folks who are depressed and recovering from addiction feel.  The harsh reality is dealing with loss in any area of life takes time and there is no quick and easy way out. Fortunately, we don’t have to grieve forever, and if we approach the breakup with the right mindset, we emerge from the darkness of loss a more well-rounded person.  Five things that can minimize damage and promote healing are the following: 1. Practice acceptance; 2. Do damage control; 3. Take inventory; 4. Plant a seed; and 5. Befriend the future.   Practice Acceptance: The shortest way out of the pain of breakup is to find a way to reconcile, right?  In most cases, chasing the urge to get back together with your ex simply delays the inevitable.  For every bushel of breakups, only a small handful are …