Why are we addicted to our crushes?

💭Dear Curious Readers,

Have you ever wondered why having a crush feels like we are on a rollercoaster? One minute, we are daydreaming about bumping into them outside of work or school, and the next, we are overanalyzing our little interaction together. We all have been there before! Crushes have a way of taking over our thoughts, adding a little spice to our ordinary lives. Why do our brains get this little sweet addiction? Let’s break it down…

1. The Brain’s Reaction 🧠

Releasing the feel-good neurotransmitter, Dopamine. This chemical makes people feel good and motivated, acting as a reward system in our bodies. The tiny interaction of a smile, a glance, and remembering our names makes our brain happy. That positive feeling is the emotion our brain wants to hang on to. When glances are exchanged between crushes, the heart beats go through the roof. Why is that? Adrenaline! This chemical is involved in both stress and excitement. This increase in adrenaline leads to the symptoms of a racing heartbeat, sweaty palms, feeling shy, or butterflies in our stomachs. These signs are some of the possible reactions when interacting with the crush. Thus, leading to the tendency to daydream. The brain creates a whole storyline to continue the joy that we are feeling through every decision or situation that is imagined. After daydreaming, the brain gets a little happy boost of energy. 

2. Pros of having a Crush 👍

How does feeling more motivated and energized influence our lives? People tend to take the extra effort and time to do things that they believe their crush will notice, such as matching an outfit, always being on their best behavior, or excelling in their work or academics. This extra fuel can be used to boost our productivity. The thought of the crush and interactions themselves can brighten up people’s days. The imagination that sparks from thinking encourages creativity in a fun way. By envisioning different scenarios and outcomes, the brain can feel inspired and store new ideas in the brain for later use. These ideas can be jotted down into writing, drawings, or even music…The positivity from those thoughts can be the little energy boost that people need. Moods are enhanced, leading to a more positive outlook on situations that come. 

3. Downside of having a crush 👎

Unfortunately, there can be some emotional plot twists that come with having crushes. They are a distraction from education, and work is something parents typically say to their children. And yes, this is a valid point. It can be easy to drift into a daydreaming state that takes away from experiences that people are currently in. During the brain’s imagination, the brain tends to only focus on the positive sides of the crush. The focus is limited to the good aspects that we observe the crush having, whether it be a good body or a good personality. Through this imaginary storyline, disappointment is a possibility. This fanstaized crush is often different in real life, because no one in this world can be perfect. The reality and fantasy in our brains do not match up. From these negative feelings, our mind continues to drift into a rabbit hole, which can affect people’s productivity and lifestyle. 

With that, crushes are completely normal and a very human part of everyone’s life. 🙃 Crushes come and go. The brain is simply doing what a brain does: reacting, imagining, and learning. Be open to crushes and enjoy the experiences they bring. So, if and when you have a crush, be gentle with your feelings and embrace the little sparks that make life a little more interesting!

Thanks for sticking to the end! Let’s continue to be kind to ourselves and stay curious!

Yours Truly,

✨Angelina C.✨