It’s essential to recognize the role of cortisol in understanding the profound effects of breakups on our well-being.
For those unfamiliar, cortisol is a primary hormone released by the body in response to stress, including the stress of a breakup. Elevated cortisol levels can suppress the immune system and increase glucose production, impacting various aspects of health for months if left unaddressed.
Symptoms of high cortisol levels include lack of motivation, fatigue, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, and withdrawal symptoms. During this challenging time, our bodies often crave dopamine, often referred to as the “feel-good” hormone. Dopamine provides a sense of pleasure and motivation, playing a crucial role in our reward system. Seeking external motivation can help keep us moving forward during this period of transition.
