We feel heart broken when we lose someone or something we loved or wanted very much, like a romantic relationship or a friendship, a family member, a pet, or a job or opportunity that was very important to us. Heartbreak can cause a large amount of stress, especially if the loss is a sudden one.

What causes heartbreak?

Heartbreak Can Be Debilitating

Jennifer Kelman, licensed clinical social worker and life coach, says that heartbreak can lead to appetite changes, lack of motivation, weight loss or weight gain, overeating, headaches, stomach pain, and a general sense of being unwell.

Why do broken hearts hurt so much?

After a breakup or the death of a loved one, the brain stops producing these chemicals, and the body literally suffers from withdrawal of these feel-good hormones. Therefore, a broken heart feels so difficult and painful to deal with. The person often withdraws in their shell and is pushed into depression.