Coping with Heartbreak: Loss of Appetite and Dizziness

Q: Coping with Heartbreak: Loss of Appetite and Dizziness

Dear Ms. <br>Y：<br>Just after the Qixi Festival, on the eve of the Mid-Autumn Festival, you suddenly broke up with your first love after nearly three years of dating. <br>This is indeed a significant blow for many people! I can understand the intense feelings of separation and lo

Loss of appetite and dizziness after a breakup?

Hello, doctor...
I recently broke up with my boyfriend after nearly three years together.
He was my first love, and during our relationship, I became very dependent on him, making him the center of my life.
Since he proposed the breakup, I have been feeling very down and have lost my appetite; in the past two days, I've only consumed less than two bottles of drinks.
When he told me he wanted to break up, I cried uncontrollably, and I even felt numbness in my head and hands.
Why is this happening? I feel completely empty these days and don't want to do anything except see him.
I feel dizzy all day, as if I might collapse at any moment, and I also experience discomfort in my chest and abdomen, with a sensation of being drained, which can be painful and anxiety-inducing.
I am not sleeping well, often dreaming about him, and when I wake up, I still feel dizzy and just go back to sleep.
Sometimes I even think about self-harm.
Should I see a psychiatrist for these symptoms? Would I need medication? Also, is the cost of seeing a psychiatrist very high? I'm still a student and worry about affording it...

Ms. Y, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/09/08

Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry

Dear Ms.
Y:
Just after the Qixi Festival, on the eve of the Mid-Autumn Festival, you suddenly broke up with your first love after nearly three years of dating.
This is indeed a significant blow for many people! I can understand the intense feelings of separation and loss that you are experiencing.
Such emotions can certainly affect your sleep, appetite, daily routine, and interpersonal relationships, as well as your academic performance, especially with school starting soon or already in session.
Based on what you have described, this appears to be an acute adjustment disorder leading to emotional distress.
I recommend that you seek professional medical treatment at a nearby psychiatric facility.
Short-term medication combined with psychological counseling can help improve your sleep and appetite, and further assist you in making adjustments and self-regulation in your life and emotions.
More importantly, it will help you return to a regular and stable routine, allowing you to reorganize your priorities and connections.
These medical services are covered by health insurance, and you will only need to pay for the registration fee and a portion of the costs.
Of course, certain specialized psychological counseling may require out-of-pocket expenses (you can choose whether to accept these specialized counseling services).
Wishing you peace and joy!

Reply Date: 2005/09/08

More Info

I'm sorry to hear that you're going through such a difficult time after your breakup. It's completely normal to feel a range of intense emotions, including sadness, anxiety, and even physical symptoms like dizziness and loss of appetite, after losing someone you deeply cared about. This emotional turmoil can manifest in various ways, and it's important to recognize that your feelings are valid and that you're not alone in experiencing them.

When you mention feeling "empty" and having physical sensations like numbness in your hands and head, it could be a response to acute stress or anxiety. Emotional distress can trigger a physiological response in the body, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, tightness in the chest, and even gastrointestinal discomfort. The feeling of being "drained" or "sucked dry" is often associated with emotional pain, and it's not uncommon for individuals to experience changes in appetite and sleep patterns during such times.

The fact that you're having thoughts of self-harm is concerning and should be taken seriously. It's crucial to talk to someone who can help you navigate these feelings, whether that's a trusted friend, family member, or a mental health professional. Seeking help from a psychiatrist or psychologist can provide you with the support you need to process your emotions and develop coping strategies. They can also assess whether medication might be beneficial for you, depending on the severity of your symptoms.

As for the cost of seeing a mental health professional, it can vary widely depending on where you live, the provider's fees, and whether you have insurance. Many universities offer counseling services for students at little to no cost, so it might be worth checking if your school has such resources available. Additionally, some therapists offer sliding scale fees based on income, which can make therapy more affordable.

In the meantime, try to engage in self-care practices that can help alleviate some of your symptoms. This might include:
1. Establishing a Routine: Try to maintain a daily schedule that includes regular meals, even if you don't feel like eating much. Small, nutritious snacks can help.

2. Physical Activity: Gentle exercise, like walking or stretching, can help improve your mood and reduce feelings of anxiety.

3. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help calm your mind and body.

4. Social Support: Reach out to friends or family members who can provide emotional support. Talking about your feelings can be incredibly therapeutic.

5. Limiting Stressors: If possible, try to reduce other stressors in your life while you navigate this emotional period.

Remember, healing takes time, and it's okay to seek help. You deserve support as you work through these feelings, and taking that step can be a sign of strength. If you ever feel overwhelmed or in crisis, please reach out to a mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area. You're not alone, and there are people who want to help you through this.

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