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Neuroscientist Unpacks Limerence: Love's Thrilling Yet Painful Obsession

9/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Neuroscientist Tom Bellamy explores "limerence," or intense romantic infatuation, in his book, *Smitten*.
Limerence triggers emotional highs and lows, often causing anxiety when feelings are unreciprocated.
Symptoms include intrusive thoughts and heartache during uncertainty.
Bellamy advises recognizing limerence and reducing contact with the infatuation target.
He recommends reframing daydreams negatively and pursuing new goals to aid emotional recovery.

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Story summary

Neuroscientist Tom Bellamy explores "limerence," or intense romantic infatuation, in his book, *Smitten*.
Limerence triggers emotional highs and lows, often causing anxiety when feelings are unreciprocated.
Symptoms include intrusive thoughts and heartache during uncertainty.
Bellamy advises recognizing limerence and reducing contact with the infatuation target.
He recommends reframing daydreams negatively and pursuing new goals to aid emotional recovery.