Broken heart: Difference between revisions
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{{Short description|Emotional pain or distress following the end of a romantic relationship}} | |||
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}} | |||
'''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== | ||
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== | ||
The | 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 | |||
== | ==Physiological Effects== | ||
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=== | ||
[[File:Why_men_leave_home_by_Avery_Hopwood_LCCN98516874.jpg|thumb|right|A depiction of emotional distress in "Why Men Leave Home" by Avery Hopwood.]] | |||
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== | ||
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== | |||
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]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Emotional pain]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Love]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Takotsubo cardiomyopathy]] | ||
[[Category:Emotions]] | [[Category:Emotions]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Love]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Psychological stress]] | ||
Revision as of 14:14, 21 February 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
