Most people seeking a long-term intimate partnership will experience the neurochemical rush that happens when meeting and becoming romantically attached to someone new. At this this early stage in a relationship we may be thoroughly fixated on the other person and his/her daily activities – even his/her very existence. Most people, though, understand that healthy romantic relationships evolve over time into somewhat less exciting but ultimately more meaningful intimacy. In short, the initial rush of romance is just a temporary stage. Love addicts, however, seek to perpetually extend this surge of brain chemicals. Love addiction is diagnosed by a love/sex addiction specialist or health care professional in the same basic ways as other addictions.
What are the signs of Love Addiction?
- An ongoing (six months or more) preoccupation to the point of obsession with romantic fantasies and new relationships.
- An inability to exercise control over romantic fantasies and new relationships.
- Negative consequences directly and/or indirectly related to out-of-control romantic fantasies and serial relationships.
