How to Cope When Your Favorite Anime Ends

Many anime fans experience a mix of emotions when their favorite series concludes, from disappointment and frustration to feelings of loss. In my own experience, handling the end of a cherished anime can be a significant challenge. However, with the right strategies, it is possible to move on and continue your journey in the vast world of anime.

Screaming, Yelling, and Venting

When my favorite anime, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, comes to an end, the initial reaction is often to scream, yell, or complain to anyone within earshot. My friends and family sometimes joke that I am 'cruel and heartless,' but it's not that I don't cry; in fact, I do, but not over anime or shows. The one time I shed tears was during No Game No Life: Zero, which broke me in a way that few other things have.

I remember sobbing silently until the end credits rolled, reflecting on the journey and the characters. It wasn't just a loss, but a realization of the emotional investment I had made in the series. In the days following, friends and family avoided mentioning the anime, as they were afraid it would upset me further.

Moving On to New Animes

One of the most effective ways to cope with a favorite anime ending is to move on to a new one. Simultaneously, rewatching the series can also bring a sense of comfort and nostalgia. By finding a new show to watch, I am able to shift my focus and find joy in new stories and characters. This transition is not just a way to replace the old show but a means to discover new passions and connections.

Finding Distraction in Sports and Action Animes

If the ending of a beloved anime leaves me feeling particularly down, I sometimes cope by focusing on sports or action animes. These types of shows often have a more uplifting and energetic tone, which can help distract from negative thoughts and emotions. To immerse myself further, I create or download high-quality wallpapers related to the show. These images serve as a personal reminder of the show every time I open my phone, allowing me to revisit the story and characters in a visual way.

Making a List and Following Fans

Rather than letting the end of an anime completely define my emotional state, I make a list of the animes I have watched. This helps me keep a record of my journey, providing a sense of accomplishment and a framework for comparing new and old shows. Additionally, following people on Instagram who create content related to my favorite animes can be a comforting and engaging way to continue my fandom. These individuals often share fanfiction, character art, and other multimedia that can help me stay connected to the world I loved.

Exploring Fanfiction and Revisiting Seasons

When I am particularly attached to an anime, there is always the option to search for fanfiction. Fanfiction allows me to explore different outcomes and scenarios, often providing a sense of closure or new perspectives. If the original anime series ends with a cliffhanger, I can find fanfiction that extends the story in exciting and unexpected ways. If there are no new seasons of the original series, fanfiction can still be a source of joy and a way to reconnect with the characters and world.

Handling the end of a favorite anime is a personal and complex process, but with the right strategies, it is possible to transition smoothly and continue enjoying the vast world of anime. Whether through rewatching, moving on to new shows, or delving into fanfiction, there are countless ways to cope and keep the spirit of anime alive in your heart.