If you feel as if your physical heart actually hurts, you’re not imagining it: The flood of stress hormones your body is releasing in response to your emotions can trigger broken heart syndrome, aka stress-induced cardiomyopathy. Symptoms of this physical condition include an erratic heartbeat, chest pain, and shortness of breath. You might even feel as though you’re having a heart attack. Any loss can cause a broken heart. Whether it’s the end of a relationship, the death of a pet, family upset, personal failure, or other negative event, separation from someone or something we value can cause heartbreak. To discuss your feelings further with a qualified therapist please contact on.