We've all heard the terms thrown around: love addiction, relationship addiction, emotional dependence... sometimes they seem interchangeable. But here's the thing – they're not. Love addiction is a serious condition, not just a catchy phrase. It's a pattern of behavior similar to other addictions, something people prone to addictions might be especially susceptible to.

Think of addiction as being fixated on something, not just chemicals like drugs or alcohol. It can be work, gambling, porn, or even a person. Love addiction falls into this category. And just like any other addiction, it has its own set of criteria, some overlapping with general addiction signs, others specific to love itself.

The Signs of Love Addiction

Let's break it down. First, there's withdrawal. When a love addict breaks up, their mental state takes a nosedive. It doesn't get better with time, it worsens. This "withdrawal" isn't just emotional – mood swings, depression – but physical too, with symptoms mirroring those of depression.

Second, there's a complete lack of control. Planned meetings with the object of this unhealthy affection stretch way past their intended length. Three hours turns into thirty, and they barely notice. This pattern repeats, impacting their work, relationships, everything in their life.

Third, red flags start popping up for family and friends. They see the drastic changes in behavior, the complete focus on this one person at the expense of everything else. Relationships crumble, social life shrinks, it all spirals downwards.

Fourth, the person's behavior becomes predictable, almost robotic. We heard about a woman in a training who, when her husband traveled, would literally just sit in a chair, doing nothing, wanting nothing. Work, friends, family – all abandoned.

Fifth, there are those toxic relationships where constant fighting, constant negativity is the norm. It's unclear why they're even together. No shared goals, no plans – just a destructive attachment that keeps them locked in this unhealthy dance. This, too, can be a sign of love addiction.

Seeking Help for Love Addiction

Love addiction is a complex issue, often difficult to diagnose. If you suspect someone you know might be struggling with this, the best advice is to encourage them to seek professional help. A psychiatrist or addiction specialist, preferably someone well-versed in non-chemical addictions, can provide an accurate diagnosis and guide them towards recovery.