What Happens to Our Body When We Experience Heartbreak?
We have all experienced heartbreak and love gone wrong. Some say they would rather have a broken leg than a broken heart. Most of us have gone through a bad breakup, so we all know how it feels.
Interestingly, people believe sadness and anger are all in our heads, yet science says otherwise. Having your heart broken can immensely affect your body, both mentally and physically. So, what are we missing?
Why did we believe heartbreak can only affect us mentally? Well, according to AHA going through a difficult breakup can enlarge the heart. As a result, the heart won’t be able to temporarily pump well.
The rest of the heart can function properly or face even more difficult forceful contractions. In the long run, heartbreak can cause heart muscle failure for a short time says DailyMail.
In fact, science says this is the reason why some people can’t heal from a broken heart. This is what happens to your body after a heartbreak.
1. It Makes You Gain Weight
It all depends on the way you cope with emotions explains Healthline. If you like to eat a lot to forget your sorrows, you will eventually gain weight. Also, overeating can severely affect your overall health. But, there are people who stop eating entirely.
They can lose a huge amount of weight and fall ill. That is why we highly recommend after a heartbreak you plan your meals and make sure to eat properly. Keep your meals under control, and avoid eating too much or too little.
If you think you can’t do it alone, ask for help.
2. It Makes You Depressed
After every heartbreak usually comes depression. According to studies, heartbreak can make a person feel depressed. Immediately after a breakup, when the heart is the most vulnerable, it is important that you have someone to talk to.
Someone who can support you and listen to what you have to say. Make sure to express your feelings so that you can pass this period easier. Of course, nothing is ever easy, but it can be helpful especially if you are going through a difficult period.
3. You Can’t Sleep
After a breakup, people have trouble sleeping. They can’t either stay asleep or fall asleep. Science says that after a fresh heartbreak, people feel really stressed. This prevents them from sleeping which in the end affects their overall health.
Sleep deprivation can be a serious problem. That is why it is important to find ways to ease the stress by meditating, drinking tea, exercising, painting, or doing whatever calms your mind.
4. Your Immune System Is Weaker
With everything that is going on, you not sleeping, overeating, or not eating at all; your immune system will be impaired. It will not function as it is supposed to and you will get the flu, cold, or feel fatigued.
The best way to get your immune system back on track is to eat plenty of healthy foods and take some vitamins. Also, it is important that you reduce your stress levels by trying some stress-relieving exercises or activities.
It is important that you have someone who will help you get through the most difficult situations.