The Science of Falling in Love: Understanding the Addiction and Benefits of Emotional Attachment

We’ve all experienced that euphoric feeling of falling in love. It’s a sensation that can make us feel alive, energized, and driven. But did you know that love is actually a form of addiction? Research has shown that the chemical processes that occur in the brain during the initial stages of a romantic relationship are similar to those of drug addiction. In this article, we’ll explore the science behind falling in love and how it affects the human brain. We’ll also take a look at the benefits and drawbacks of emotional attachment, and how to cope with the inevitable emotional rollercoaster that is love.

Love: A Motivation System

According to anthropologist Helen Fisher, love is not an emotion but a motivation system. It’s part of the reward system of the brain, which is responsible for feelings such as pleasure, satisfaction, and happiness. When we fall in love, the brain releases a cocktail of chemicals such as dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin that make us feel good. This rush of positive emotions is what makes falling in love so addictive.

In fact, a study conducted by neuroscientists Andreas Bartels and Semir Zeki found that the brain activity of people in love is similar to that of addicts who have just injected drugs. Both activities activate the same regions in the brain’s reward system, particularly the nucleus accumbens brain region which controls all addictions.

Like an Addiction, You Can’t Stop Your Feelings from Growing

Two people in love exhibit all of the characteristics of a drug addict. They can’t stop thinking about their partner, are constantly craving their presence, and feel a rush of pleasure just from hearing their voice. This growing obsession is referred to as “intensification” when talking about drug addictions.

When a romantic relationship ends, the brain goes through withdrawals. People may experience symptoms such as loss of appetite, anxiety, not sleeping enough, and feeling lonely. This is because the brain still craves the positive emotions associated with the person they were in love with. These symptoms are similar to those of drug withdrawal.

The Survival Benefits of Emotional Attachment

While love may seem like a “crazy” addiction, it is actually what helps us survive and thrive as a species. Emotional attachment is necessary for humans to form deep and long-lasting connections with each other. It allows us to build families, communities, and form bonds that can last a lifetime.

When we start getting to know a potential romantic partner, the amygdala and prefrontal cortex in our brain shuts down. These are the areas responsible for making negative judgments and producing negative thoughts. By preventing these negative emotions, the brain allows emotional attachment to grow.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Emotional Attachment

Emotional attachment can be a positive thing when the relationship is mutual and appropriate. It can lead to deep and fulfilling connections that last a lifetime. However, it can also be just as toxic as a drug addiction when the romantic advances are unwanted, rejected, or inappropriate. It’s important to be aware of the signs of a toxic relationship and to exit them when necessary.

Coping with the Emotional Rollercoaster

If you find yourself falling in love with someone or unable to get over an ex, it’s important to remember that these thoughts and feelings are normal. However, it’s also important to cope with them in a healthy way. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family to fill any feeling of emptiness. Spending time with close friends and family can also help the brain produce more opioids, which are natural painkillers.

Alternatively, try repeat affirmation. Challenge negative core beliefs and replace them with positive, life-affirming beliefs. Take the time to work on your mind, and your soul will heal. Coping with the emotional rollercoaster of love takes time and patience, but ultimately it is possible to overcome the withdrawal from a relationship.

In conclusion, love is an addiction that is essential for the survival of the human species. It may cause us to experience a plethora of emotions, both positive and negative, but ultimately it is what connects us to each other and helps us form deep bonds. Coping with the emotional rollercoaster of love takes time, patience, and a healthy support system, but it is possible to overcome the withdrawal from a relationship.