How does one support a friend through a breakup?

Ugh, relationship questions amirite?

Seriously though. This whole having friends thing is haaaard.

I’ve never actually been through a breakup, but I’m pretty certain my friend is delusional. The guy she’s been with for nine years – the only guy she’s ever been with – broke up with her, moved out, and is now dating other people.

She is still convinced he’s going to come home.

She’s putting her entire life on hold and pining away for this shithead who I know considered her a port in a storm ever since he lost 100 pounds (with her as his personal trainer).

My friend is smart, and attractive, and an all around amazing person, and not only can she not get over this guy, she’s torturing herself by being unwilling to entertain the idea that he’s not coming back.

It really sucks to see my friend in pain.

Apart from all of the above, is there anything I can do or say to help her? Not necessarily to help her come to her senses – obviously she needs to do that in her own time of her own volition – but what exactly does one do to support their friends through such a strong emotional crisis?

Most of you did this in junior high, I’m sure… I missed out on that kind of life-training.