The researchers additionally discovered that “larger hippocampal and amygdala activation was related to being the one who didn’t provoke the breakup, feeling betrayed, or nonetheless holding optimistic ideas in regards to the ex-relationship.” Components like attachment type, childhood neglect, and sexual orientation additionally influenced neural responses.
Whereas the pattern dimension was comparatively small, the examine highlights how intensely romantic loss can have an effect on younger adults, generally neurologically mirroring trauma. The authors be aware the necessity for extra analysis however make a compelling case for recognising that, for some, heartbreak is extra than simply emotional; it’s biologically impactful too.
