Common Signs and Symptoms of Love Addiction
Here are some of the love addiction symptoms to watch out for when you’re dealing with an unhealthy attachment or relationship.
- Avoiding abandonment and rejection at any cost
- Being controlling and manipulative in relationships
- Unrealistic expectations of their relationships and partner
- Tendency to misunderstand intensity for intimacy
- Confusing love and sexual attraction
- Using sex or the relationship to relieve pain or improve mood
- Trading sexual activity for affection or love
- Refusing to acknowledge the problem
- Inability to be single or switching from one partner to another.
Healing from Love Addiction
Sometimes taking time off from dating for a while can help break the cycle of obsessions and compulsions revolving around the other person. It’s very hard to abstain from compulsive, addictive behavior but with support and the right steps, anyone will be able to overcome daunting situations.
Here are some ways one can heal from love addiction:
- Learning the difference between healthy and addictive love.
- Find ways to be independent, rather than being codependent.
- Notice if the patterns are recurring in your relationships.
- Acknowledge the pain of childhood such as abandonment or shame.
- Learning to be assertive and building self-esteem
- Take time to meet your own needs and nurture yourself.
- Take time to fall in love with yourself.
Love addiction holds you back from having a meaningful and loving relationship. But when you recognize the various types of love addiction and see the patterns in yourself, it will allow you to make some positive changes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes a person addicted to love?
The feelings of ‘love’ induce the release of serotonin and dopamine, which feeds the compulsive cravings for pleasure and satisfaction.
Is codependency a love addict?
Among the various types of love addicts, there is a codependent lover who uses his/her partner to strengthen their fragile self-esteem and gain validation.
What is a love avoidant addict?
An avoidant love addict is one who doesn’t share who they are in a true manner. They are attracted to someone who is needy or someone they can control.
Why is falling in love so addictive?
Love triggers and releases neurotransmitters, which stimulates the brain receptors, resulting in feelings of pleasure and excitement and, in some cases, addiction.
