Broken heart: Difference between revisions

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'''Broken Heart''' is a term often used to describe the intense emotional pain or suffering one feels after losing a loved one, whether through death, divorce, breakup, physical separation, betrayal, or romantic rejection.
{{Short description|Emotional pain or distress following the end of a romantic relationship}}
'''Broken heart''', also known as '''heartbreak''', is a metaphor for the intense emotional and sometimes physical stress or pain one feels at experiencing great longing. The concept is cross-cultural, often cited with reference to a failed romantic relationship, but it can also be associated with the loss of a loved one, betrayal, or other forms of emotional distress.


== Overview ==
==Causes==
A [[broken heart]] can cause a multitude of physical and psychological symptoms. The phrase refers to the emotional pain one feels at the end of a relationship and is associated with grieving. The term is also used in association with a sudden shock or disappointment, or an instance of extreme sadness that can cause a physical pain in the heart and stomach.
The primary cause of a broken heart is the end of a [[romantic relationship]]. This can occur due to a [[breakup]], [[divorce]], or the death of a partner. Other causes include unrequited love, betrayal, or any significant emotional loss.


== Symptoms ==
==Symptoms==
Symptoms of a broken heart can be both physical and emotional. Emotional symptoms can include acute sadness, despair, loss of motivation, feelings of loneliness and helplessness, and crying. Physical symptoms can include loss of appetite, insomnia, fatigue, and chest pain.
The symptoms of a broken heart can vary widely but often include:
* Emotional distress
* [[Depression (mood)|Depression]]
* [[Anxiety]]
* [[Insomnia]]
* Loss of appetite
* Physical pain, such as chest pain or a "heavy" feeling in the chest


== Causes ==
==Physiological Effects==
The most common causes of a broken heart are the end of a romantic relationship, the death of a loved one, or the loss of a close relationship. Other causes can include betrayal, such as infidelity, or the loss of a cherished dream or goal.
The emotional pain of a broken heart can have physiological effects on the body. The stress of heartbreak can lead to increased levels of [[cortisol]], a stress hormone, which can affect the [[immune system]], [[digestive system]], and [[cardiovascular system]].


== Treatment ==
===Broken Heart Syndrome===
Treatment for a broken heart can involve various forms of therapy, including [[cognitive behavioral therapy]], [[psychotherapy]], and [[counseling]]. Self-care measures, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, getting regular exercise, and seeking support from friends and family, can also be beneficial.
A more severe manifestation of the physical effects of heartbreak is known as [[Takotsubo cardiomyopathy]], or "broken heart syndrome." This condition mimics a [[heart attack]] and is characterized by sudden chest pain and shortness of breath, often triggered by an acute emotional stressor.


== Cultural References ==
==Cultural References==
The concept of a broken heart is a common theme in literature and popular culture. It is often used as a metaphor for the emotional pain one feels after losing a loved one.
The concept of a broken heart has been a prevalent theme in [[literature]], [[music]], and [[art]] throughout history. It is often depicted as a universal human experience, transcending cultural and temporal boundaries.


== See Also ==
==Coping Mechanisms==
Coping with a broken heart involves both emotional and physical strategies. Common methods include:
* Seeking support from friends and family
* Engaging in [[physical exercise]]
* Practicing [[mindfulness]] and [[meditation]]
* Seeking professional help, such as [[therapy]] or [[counseling]]
 
==Related pages==
* [[Grief]]
* [[Grief]]
* [[Bereavement]]
* [[Emotional pain]]
* [[Depression (mood)]]
* [[Love]]
* [[Post-traumatic stress disorder]]
* [[Takotsubo cardiomyopathy]]
 
== References ==
<references />


[[Category:Emotions]]
[[Category:Emotions]]
[[Category:Psychology]]
[[Category:Love]]
[[Category:Grief]]
[[Category:Psychological stress]]
{{psychology-stub}}
<gallery>
File:Why_men_leave_home_by_Avery_Hopwood_LCCN98516874.jpg|Why men leave home by Avery Hopwood
</gallery>

Latest revision as of 02:39, 9 March 2025

Emotional pain or distress following the end of a romantic relationship


Broken heart, also known as heartbreak, is a metaphor for the intense emotional and sometimes physical stress or pain one feels at experiencing great longing. The concept is cross-cultural, often cited with reference to a failed romantic relationship, but it can also be associated with the loss of a loved one, betrayal, or other forms of emotional distress.

Causes[edit]

The primary cause of a broken heart is the end of a romantic relationship. This can occur due to a breakup, divorce, or the death of a partner. Other causes include unrequited love, betrayal, or any significant emotional loss.

Symptoms[edit]

The symptoms of a broken heart can vary widely but often include:

  • Emotional distress
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Loss of appetite
  • Physical pain, such as chest pain or a "heavy" feeling in the chest

Physiological Effects[edit]

The emotional pain of a broken heart can have physiological effects on the body. The stress of heartbreak can lead to increased levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, which can affect the immune system, digestive system, and cardiovascular system.

Broken Heart Syndrome[edit]

A more severe manifestation of the physical effects of heartbreak is known as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, or "broken heart syndrome." This condition mimics a heart attack and is characterized by sudden chest pain and shortness of breath, often triggered by an acute emotional stressor.

Cultural References[edit]

The concept of a broken heart has been a prevalent theme in literature, music, and art throughout history. It is often depicted as a universal human experience, transcending cultural and temporal boundaries.

Coping Mechanisms[edit]

Coping with a broken heart involves both emotional and physical strategies. Common methods include:

Related pages[edit]