Can't getting over a breakup lead to depression?
Nov 17, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
After a breakup, people commonly experience emotions such as sadness and loss. If individuals have strong emotional regulation abilities, or can alleviate these feelings through support from family and friends, engagement in hobbies, or distraction techniques, negative emotions will gradually diminish over time and will not develop into depression. Although this group may temporarily experience symptoms such as insomnia and decreased appetite, their daily routines are not significantly affected, and they are still able to function normally at work and in social settings.
Generally speaking, not being able to get over a breakup does not necessarily lead to depression. Most people gradually recover, while only a small number who remain trapped in negative emotions for a prolonged period may develop depression. If concerned, it is advisable to seek medical consultation early. Detailed analysis is as follows:
After a breakup, people commonly experience emotions such as sadness and loss. Individuals with strong emotional self-regulation skills, or those who can alleviate their feelings through support from friends and family, engaging in hobbies, or distraction techniques, will typically see these negative emotions fade over time, without progressing to depression. Although this group may temporarily suffer symptoms like insomnia or reduced appetite, their daily routines are not significantly disrupted, and they can continue normal work and social activities.
If negative emotions persist long after the breakup—lasting more than two weeks or even several months—and are accompanied by明显 symptoms such as persistent low mood, loss of interest, and self-criticism, or if the individual struggles with eating, sleeping, or loses motivation for life, depression may be triggered. Additionally, individuals with pre-existing depressive tendencies or a family history of depression are at higher risk, as the psychological impact of a breakup may further increase their likelihood of developing depression. In such cases, worsening symptoms should be taken seriously.
If someone remains deeply distressed for a prolonged period after a breakup and shows signs of emotional disturbance, they should proactively seek help from loved ones or professional mental health support. If symptoms continue to worsen, timely medical evaluation is essential to avoid delaying appropriate intervention.
