Getting through a best friend breakup

NYU psychiatry professor Irene Levine recently explored the elusive subject of female relationships in her new book, "Best Friends Forever: Surviving a Breakup with Your Best Friend."

The book was released Sept. 20, which was National Women's Friendship Day.

"I've always been appreciative of my friendships," Levine said. "I had this curiosity of why some relationships last and others don't. Since I am a psychologist and journalist, I decided to dig deeper and learn more."

"Best Friends Forever" explores the multifaceted dynamics of female relationships and gives advice on the best ways to nurture and mend existing ones — and cut the cord for those that are toxic.

Levine began research for her book by creating an anonymous online survey that received responses from 15,000 women in seven months. The initial survey asked "the number of women a respondent considered to be her 'best' or 'very close' friends" and "the frequency of communication in those relationships."

Juliet Grames is an editor at The Overlook Press. She called "Best Friends Forever" a "guidebook for someone recovering from a loss entirely."

Levine completed the book in two and a half years after talking to women, conducting case studies and analyzing her research.

"Reading the book for me has been rewarding thus far," Grames said "It's received a lot of press attention and comments on blogs and websites."

According to Vida Engstrang, publicist at The Overlook Press, the book has touched many strangers' lives.

"We've received a lot of personal response," Engstrang said. "One message read, 'Irene, I don't know you, but I feel like I do.' This book has definitely touched a couple of people."

Although the book caters to female relationships, Engstrang said the book's advice has personally helped her with a variety of relationships — including those with men.

Levine believes her book will inspire many women.

"I hope the message will reach out to as many women as possible, especially young women, who won't feel like something is wrong with them," Levine said.

Gloria Yu is a contributing writer.