Heartbreak's Toll: The Physical and Mental Impact of Love Lost
Heartbreak is one of the hidden landmines of human existence, because it can really really affect our health.
Ever wondered why a broken heart can feel like physical pain? In this episode of 'All In The Mind', author Florence Williams dives into the science behind the agony of heartbreak. She explains how the brain's response to emotional pain mirrors its reaction to physical injury, making heartbreak one of life's most distressing experiences. But it doesn't stop there. Williams reveals that heartbreak can even alter gene expression and increase susceptibility to illness and early death.
Divorcees, for example, are statistically more likely to face an early demise. This episode isn't just about the gloom, though. Williams also shares practical tips for coping, like immersing yourself in nature and finding beauty in the everyday. Whether you're nursing a fresh wound or still healing from an old one, this episode offers valuable insights into why heartbreak hurts so much and how you can start to mend.