This is a particularly interesting read if you contrast it with the new paper on how memory suppression helps protect a person from PTSD and trauma.[0] Breaking up with someone is not as traumatic as PTSD-causing events, of course, but it's still traumatic. So these Facebook pop-ups and casual newsfeed sightings are doing real damage but whereas triggers for PTSD in soldiers, for example, aren't likely to occur that randomly on social media and making them remember their experience is seen as a faux pas, the smaller trauma of a breakup is often disregarded and I've personally known people who posted photos with a mutual friend's ex a few days after a breakup. He got subjected to seeing her, happy and hanging out, but it's not like he could accuse his friends of misconduct, they were just posting a typical Friday fun photo. Dropping off social media for a bit might indeed be the best option here, unless you're willing to relive the pangs of a breakup again and again for a while.<p>[0]: <a href="https://science.sciencemag.org/content/367/6479/eaay8477" rel="nofollow">https://science.sciencemag.org/content/367/6479/eaay8477</a>