#935 - Crappy Childhood Fairy - Limerence Explained: Why Do We Get Addicted To People?

This episode explores the psychological phenomenon of limerence, an intense, obsessive form of infatuation often characterized by unrequited feelings. Against the backdrop of a general lack of awareness about limerence, the discussion delves into its addictive nature, comparing it to heroin addiction in its intensity and the difficulty of overcoming it. More significantly, the conversation highlights the strong correlation between childhood neglect and the development of limerence, suggesting that it may be a coping mechanism stemming from unmet emotional needs. For instance, the guest recounts numerous letters received from individuals struggling with limerence, often linking their experiences to traumatic childhoods involving alcoholic or neglectful parents. The discussion further examines the role of hope and idealized perceptions in sustaining limerence, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing underlying emotional issues for recovery. Ultimately, the episode offers practical advice for overcoming limerence, including cutting contact with the limerent object and actively seeking support from friends and therapists.