Many people love being in love. The feeling of being wanted and appreciated is one of life’s greatest joys. However, some people take this feeling to an extreme, which is called love addiction.

According to researchers, there are two types of love addiction, both of which have negative consequences.

What is Love Addiction?

Love addiction is when someone becomes addicted to the feeling of being in love and the thrill of a new relationship. People who struggle with love addiction will bounce from one relationship to another without taking a break.

They become obsessed with their partners and feel like they cannot live without them. They will go to great lengths to keep the relationship going, even if it means sacrificing their own well-being or happiness.

Love addiction is often compared to drug addiction because of the high people feel during the initial stages of a relationship.

However, just like drugs, the high fades over time, and the person becomes dependent on their partner to create that feeling again.

The Two Types of Love Addiction

Researchers have identified two types of love addiction:.

1. Obsessive Love Addiction

Obsessive love addiction is when someone becomes obsessed with their partner. They will check up on them constantly and feel anxious when they are not together. They become jealous and possessive, even over small things.

They may also engage in stalking or other obsessive behaviors.

People with obsessive love addiction often feel like they cannot control their thoughts or feelings. They may know that their behavior is irrational, but they feel powerless to change it.

2. Codependent Love Addiction

Codependent love addiction is when someone becomes obsessed with taking care of their partner. They will do anything to make their partner happy, even if it means sacrificing their own happiness.

They may also enable their partner’s negative behaviors or make excuses for them.

People with codependent love addiction often have low self-esteem and believe that they are not worthy of love. They feel like they need to earn their partner’s love through their actions and may become resentful if their efforts go unnoticed.

The Negative Consequences of Love Addiction

Love addiction can have a number of negative consequences, both for the person struggling with it and their partner. These consequences can include:.

1. Loss of Self-Identity

People with love addiction often become so consumed with their partner that they lose sight of who they are as an individual. They may stop pursuing their own interests or hobbies and focus solely on their partner’s needs and wants.

2. Inability to Maintain a Healthy Relationship

Love addiction can make it difficult to maintain a healthy relationship. People with love addiction may become too clingy or needy, which can push their partner away.

They may also become too controlling or jealous, which can lead to arguments or even violence.

3. Emotional Turmoil

Love addiction can create emotional turmoil for both the person struggling with it and their partner. The constant cycle of highs and lows can be exhausting, and the fear of losing their partner can be overwhelming.

4. Increased Risk of Depression and Anxiety

People with love addiction are at an increased risk of depression and anxiety. The constant worry and fear of losing their partner can be all-consuming, and the fear of being alone can be debilitating.

5. Financial Consequences

People with love addiction may also experience financial consequences. They may spend money on their partner’s wants and needs, even if they cannot afford it.

They may also miss work or neglect their own financial responsibilities in order to spend time with their partner.

Conclusion

Love addiction is a serious condition that can have negative consequences for both the person struggling with it and their partner. There are two types of love addiction, obsessive and codependent, both of which can be damaging.

Recognizing the signs of love addiction is the first step in getting help.