Closure means finding a healthy way to finish something: a relationship, an experience, or chapter of life, so you can return back to the present. Without closure, part of us stays stuck in the past. We may hold on to feelings or questions that were never resolved.

Closure helps us reconcile, “This mattered. I’ve learned from it, and now I can move forward.” It’s not always easy, endings can bring up sadness, anger, or guilt, but facing those feelings allows healing. Even if the other person isn’t available, you can still find closure by journaling, writing an unsent letter, creating art, or talking about it in therapy.

Endings can be uncomfortable, so we often avoid them. We might leave without saying goodbye, hold on too long, or cut things off too quickly. Sometimes we hide behind humor, caretaking, or distract ourselves with busyness and substances. These habits protect us from short term pain but can keep us stuck in the past.

Remember that beginnings and endings are both natural parts of life. Take time to notice what feels true before saying goodbye, and speak from the heart when you can. If that’s not possible, find another way to express your feelings, through journaling, talking, or creating art, so you can let go and move forward.