I have a question; I know it may sound awkward for me to ask this, but there is a reason why I am asking this question: Is it forbidden to sit shiva for a broken heart? I ask because I had my heart broken earlier this week by someone who I was dating because they are now engaged to someone else that they were seeing while they were supposed to be only seeing me.

ב"ה Shalom, Don't feel awkward. You are going through a natural process of feeling emotional hurt and pain. From my experience, from recently seeing a relative going through the same experience, you should relate to your feelings and not push them away. Allow yourself to feel and process so the pain doesn't get stronger. It's okay to cry too and I'm happy to see you felt comfortable enough to reach out to this website to someone you don't even know. It's also important to express yourself to those you feel close to so that you don’t lock these feelings inside. Hopefully, those close to you will have something comforting to say. Listening to music can also be soothing. On the other hand, sitting Shivah is something totally different. That is observed for a lost parent or sibling. It is a halachic and emotional processing of losing a relative and also perpetuating the memory and merits of the deceased. This is not the case here. Your parents and siblings should all live and be well. G-d should bless you and give you the strength to ride over this challenging wave until you reach safe shores. All the best