Psychologist's help with love addiction

Love addiction is a condition where a person experiences an excessive attachment and dependence on another person, similar to a dependency on drugs or alcohol. In love addiction, a person may feel that they cannot live without their partner and begin to sacrifice their interests and personal boundaries to maintain the relationship. This type of addiction can significantly affect mental and emotional well-being and the overall quality of life.

Signs of Love Addiction

The signs of love addiction can vary, but some of the most common include:

1. Obsessive thoughts about the partner. The person constantly thinks about their partner, even in situations where it is inappropriate or disruptive to other aspects of life.

2. Fear of loss. The fear of being alone or losing the relationship becomes overwhelming and dominant in behavior and thoughts.

3. Sacrificing personal interests. The individual may sacrifice hobbies, work, and even family relationships for their partner.

4. Need for constant validation. There is a need for constant attention and affirmation from the partner to feel valuable.

5. Ignoring personal needs and boundaries. Love addiction leads people to neglect their needs and boundaries for another person.

6. Emotional swings. The relationship is filled with extreme emotional experiences—from euphoria to despair.

Causes of Love Addiction

Love addiction can arise from various causes. One of the most common is a lack of self-esteem and confidence. When a person is unsure of their worth, they begin to seek validation through external sources, such as romantic relationships. Additionally, psychological trauma and adverse childhood experiences, including a lack of love and attention from parents, can contribute to developing dependent relationships in adulthood.

Social environment and culture also play a role. Modern media and societal expectations can create an illusory idea of love and romantic relationships, leading people to idealize partners and distort reality.

Consequences of Love Addiction

Love addiction can have severe consequences for mental health and social life. This condition is often accompanied by anxiety, depression, and other psychological disorders. A person suffering from love addiction may feel constant dissatisfaction and emptiness.

Socially, dependent relationships can lead to isolation from friends and family, further exacerbating the situation. The person may become increasingly withdrawn and alienated as their entire world revolves around one partner, creating a toxic dynamic that ultimately destroys the relationship.

How to Overcome Love Addiction

1. Awareness of the problem. The first step is acknowledging that you have a problem with love addiction. This requires an honest look at your feelings and behavior.

2. Working on self-esteem. Strengthening confidence and self-worth can help reduce dependence on a partner. Psychotherapy and support can be helpful tools in this process.

3. Setting boundaries. It is essential to learn to establish and maintain personal boundaries in relationships. This will help preserve independence and self-respect.

4. Seeking support. Reaching out for help from friends, family, or professionals can be crucial in overcoming love addiction.

5. Developing hobbies and interests. Engaging in activities that bring joy and satisfaction can help regain a sense of independence and self-realization.

n the study “Love Addiction: An Emotion Dysregulation Perspective,” authors Caroline Brester and Lisa Major of the University of Utah (2023) investigated the phenomenon of love addiction as a form of emotional dysregulation. They found that love addiction often manifests itself through an intense desire for constant emotional interaction and attention from a romantic partner, which can lead to compulsive behavior and severe relationship stress. This condition is often associated with low self-esteem and difficulty managing emotions, which increases susceptibility to stress and depression. Researchers also noted that cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness strategies can be effective in reducing symptoms of love addiction and improving quality of life. The study highlights the importance of recognizing the signs of an addictive relationship early to prevent negative consequences.

Professional Help

If you are experiencing love addiction and feel unable to cope alone, it is essential to seek help from a professional. Psychologists and psychotherapists can offer effective methods for dealing with dependent relationships and help restore psychological balance. Our specialists on the portal are ready to provide support and help you find a way out of a difficult situation. Leave an application on our website, and we will contact you for consultation and start working on your issues.