The Mindset

How to deal with limerence while in a marriage?

Written by Mindset App Team | Jun 27, 2024 2:48:25 PM

Navigate the complex terrain of managing limerence within marriage with expert strategies. Explore effective coping mechanisms to handle intense emotions and protect the sanctity of your relationship. Discover how to balance personal well-being with nurturing marital bonds.

Table of Contents


  1. Introduction

  2. Stages of limerence in a marriage

  3. Dealing with Limerence 

  4. Working on marriage

  5. Self-Care and Personal Growth

  6. Summary

Dealing with intense infatuation within a marriage

Dealing with limerence in marriage can be a challenging and distressing experience for someone who's married. The intense infatuation and obsessive thoughts towards someone outside the marriage can jeopardize the good marriage that once existed. I've experienced this state of limerence while married, and I didn't see it coming. It's important to recognize that limerence is a symptom of limerence and that limerence always ends. Despite feelings of love and limerence towards a potential affair partner, I don't want to give up on my happy marriage and the years of commitment that have been invested. By seeking support from a marriage helper and openly discussing the concept of limerence with my spouse, we can work towards making our marriage work.

Married people should understand that being limerent for someone else does not mean the end of their marriage, but rather a challenge to overcome. It's crucial to communicate openly and honestly with your partner and ask for emotional support during this difficult time. Remember, limerence is just a feeling, and it always ends eventually. So, please don't make any hasty decisions that could jeopardize the long-term health of your relationship. 

What are stages of limerence in a marriage?

Dealing with limerence in marriage can be a challenging journey for any couple who finds themselves caught in the throes of this intense emotional phenomenon. Limerence typically lasts anywhere from a few months to a few years, and during this time, one partner may find themselves obsessively and madly in love with their limerent partner. With 2 kids and years of marriage behind them, it can be even more difficult to navigate the complexities of limerence without seeking outside help. Marriage counselor can provide the necessary guidance and tools to help get the marriage back on track.

As the limerence becomes more pronounced, the limerent partner may begin to feel intense longing and romantic attraction towards their spouse. However, this can also lead to feelings of anger towards their partner for not reciprocating these feelings. In some cases, the marriage ended getting the spouse back on the right track. It is crucial to contact marriage helper for support and guidance during this tumultuous time.

What is Limerence for someone?

Limerence is characterized by intense, involuntary romantic desire for another person, often referred to as the limerent object. This condition, first coined by psychologist Dorothy Tennov in the 1970s, involves a constant, overwhelming need for reciprocation of feelings. Unlike simple infatuation, limerence is marked by persistent and intrusive thoughts about the limerent object, which can interfere with daily life and existing relationships.

What are stages of limerence in a marriage?

Dealing with limerence in marriage can be a challenging and confusing experience. For those unfamiliar with the term, limerence refers to a state of intense infatuation or obsession with another person, often leading to feelings of euphoria and a strong desire for reciprocation. When you’re in limerence, you may find yourself thinking, “I love this person,” or “I’m afraid to lose them,” even if you’re committed to your marriage. It’s common for individuals to experience limerence even when they really don’t love with someone else. In fact, the fact that limerence may occur while you’re happily married is a sign of limerence that can be distressing for those involved.

Limerence causes a surge of dopamine in the brain, leading to intense feelings and an almost addictive desire to be with the object of your affection. This can sometimes manifest as an emotional affair or a deep longing for something more than your current marriage. However, it’s important to remember that limerence always ends limerence may even lead to a stronger and more resilient true love in the marriage back, once the experience of limerence has passed.

Living with Limerence Marriage

When limerence occurs within the context of marriage, it can lead to emotional distance, decreased intimacy, and significant marital conflict. The limerent individual may feel torn between their spouse and their overwhelming feelings for another person. This internal struggle can result in feelings of guilt, confusion, and distress, not only for the limerent individual but also for their spouse. 

Communication breakdown and trust issues may arise as the limerent individual may be tempted to hide or minimize their feelings for the other person. This can lead to secrecy, deceit, and a lack of transparency within the marriage, further exacerbating the emotional distance between partners.


Moreover, the spouse of the limerent individual may feel neglected, unloved, and insecure as their partner's attention and affection are directed towards someone else. This can result in feelings of betrayal, jealousy, and resentment, ultimately damaging the foundation of the marriage.


Couples therapy or counseling can be beneficial for addressing the issues arising from limerence within a marriage. By providing a safe space for both partners to express their feelings, concerns, and needs, therapy can help facilitate open and honest communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen the emotional bond between partners.


It is important for the limerent individual to acknowledge their feelings, take responsibility for their actions, and make a conscious effort to prioritize their marriage and work towards rebuilding a healthy and fulfilling relationship with their spouse. This may involve setting boundaries with the other person, seeking individual therapy, and actively participating in couples therapy to address and resolve the underlying issues contributing to limerence within the marriage. 

How to Deal with Limerence?

Dealing with limerence in marriage can be a challenging and painful experience. When in love someone deeply, it can be difficult to navigate the intense emotions that come with the thing called limerence. It is important to remember that limerence also fades with time, but it can be all-consuming in the moment. If you or your limerent spouse are struggling with limerence experience, it is crucial to seek support and guidance. Communication with your non-limerent spouse is key in addressing these feelings and finding a way forward without leaving your spouse. This may involve asking questions, seeking therapy, or re-evaluating the part of our relationship that may be contributing to the intensity of limerence.

In some cases, the limerent spouse may feel so consumed by limerence that they consider leaving their spouse for their object of affection. However, it is important to pause and reflect on whether this would truly bring happiness. As difficult as it may be, sometimes letting go and focusing on what is best for everyone involved is the most loving choice. Your partner would be devastated if you were to leave your spouse for someone else. It is essential to concentrate on your own well-being and asked questions about what truly makes you happy.

Relationships need attention and effort to thrive, and being influenced by various factors such as limerence can complicate things. If you find yourself grappling with limerence, remember to take a step back and breathe. That done the right thing may not always be the easiest, but it can lead to a happier and healthier future. Honesty and open communication with your partner are essential, even when it feels uncomfortable. While limerence lasts, remember that it is just a passing phase and prioritizing what is best for both you and your husband anymore will ultimately lead to a stronger and more fulfilling relationship in the long run.

In the face of temptation or overwhelming emotions, remember the strength of your commitment and the love that has brought you this far. Your partner would appreciate your honesty and the effort you are putting in to navigate these complex feelings. And if all else fails, remember that seeking professional help can provide valuable support and guidance. Ultimately, while it may feel as though leaving your spouse is the answer, it would be.

Accept the Reality of Living with Limerence Marriage

Dealing with limerence in marriage can be a challenging and emotional experience. When one partner experiences intense feelings of infatuation and obsession towards someone other than their spouse, it can create a rift in the marriage. However, accepting the reality of living with limerence marriage is crucial in moving forward. Ignoring or denying these feelings can lead to further complications and misunderstandings. It is important to communicate openly and honestly with your partner about what you are experiencing.

I love my partner deeply, but these feelings of limerence have left me feeling conflicted. To ignore them would be a tragedy, as it could damage the trust and intimacy we have built together. Instead, I must find a way to concentrate on my work and put in the effort to strengthen our relationship.

Despite the challenges, with open communication and a willingness to work through difficulties, it is possible to navigate dealing with limerence in marriage and come out stronger on the other side. Remember, seeking help from a therapist or counselor can also be beneficial in overcoming these obstacles. Communication and understanding are key in facing this difficult situation.

How to deal with limerence? Seek Professional Help 

It can be helpful to seek the guidance of a therapist or counselor who has experience in dealing with issues related to limerence. They can provide support and guidance in navigating through the emotions and challenges that come with limerence.

Establishing Boundaries

It is important for both partners to establish clear boundaries to prevent any further emotional or physical infidelity. This may include limiting contact with the person causing the limerence, setting boundaries around communication, and avoiding situations that may trigger feelings of limerence.

Working on the Marriage

To deal with limerence, it is crucial for both partners to focus on enhancing their marriage. This could include attending couples therapy, improving communication abilities, and rediscovering emotional and physical connections with each other.

Focusing on Self-Care

It is important for both partners in a limerence marriage to prioritize self-care during this challenging time. This may involve engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment, practicing mindfulness and self-awareness, and seeking support from friends and family.

Identifying Triggers for Limerence

Understanding what triggers limerent feelings can help in managing them. This might include certain situations, interactions, or even thoughts that lead to obsessive thinking about the limerent object. Identifying these triggers can help in developing strategies to avoid or cope with them.

Common Triggers for Limerence

  • Spending a lot of time with the limerent object
  • Receiving compliments or attention from the limerent object
  • Feeling lonely or isolated
  • Seeing or hearing about the limerent object
  • Remembering positive interactions with the limerent object
  • Feeling insecure or unsure of oneself
  • Feeling bored or unfulfilled in other areas of life

By recognizing these triggers, individuals can work on finding healthier coping mechanisms and distractions to help manage their limerent feelings. This may involve setting boundaries with the limerent object, engaging in self-care activities, seeking support from friends or a therapist, or redirecting thoughts towards positive and fulfilling experiences. Identifying triggers and developing a plan to address them can help individuals regain control over their emotions and move forward in a healthy way.

 

How to save your marriage

Dealing with limerence in marriage can be a challenging situation for anyone involved. The phenomenon of limerence, or being infatuated with someone new, can create turmoil within a marriage. If you find yourself experiencing limerence while married, it's important to ask yourself some tough questions. Do you truly love your spouse or are you simply infatuated with someone new? Limerence tends to make us begin to think irrationally, causing us to believe that leaving our spouse for someone else would be the right thing to do. However, in every marriage, it's crucial to remember the commitment we made to our partner. Even if your marriage ended because of limerence, it's possible to work through these feelings and rebuild your relationship.

One way to address limerence in marriage is to focus on your own inner child and the needs that may not be met in your current relationship. Instead of concentrating on the limerent experience, try to understand why you are feeling this way and what it says about the nature of the relationship with your spouse. If you are the spouse of a limerent, it can be challenging to navigate these emotions, especially if your partner is considering leaving you for someone else. It's important to communicate openly and honestly about how you feel and seek support from a therapist or counselor if needed.

Strengthening the marital bond?

  1. Schedule Regular Date Nights: Set aside time to spend together without any distractions. This can help keep the spark alive in your relationship and allow you to focus on each other.
  2. Communicate Effectively: Open and honest communication is key to a strong relationship. Take the time to listen to each other's thoughts and feelings, and be willing to compromise and find solutions to any issues that arise.
  3. Show Appreciation: It's important to express gratitude and appreciation for your partner on a regular basis. Small gestures like saying thank you, giving compliments, and showing affection can go a long way in strengthening your bond.
  4. Work on Conflict Resolution: Disagreements are a normal part of any relationship, but it's important to resolve conflicts in a healthy and constructive way. Avoiding conflicts or sweeping issues under the rug can lead to resentment and distance between you and your partner.
  5. Seek Professional Help When Needed: If you're facing challenges in your marriage that you're unable to resolve on your own, don't hesitate to seek help from a therapist or counselor. They can provide valuable tools and strategies to help you navigate through difficult times and strengthen your bond.

Setting Boundaries

It is important to set clear boundaries with the limerent object. This might involve limiting or cutting off contact, especially if the relationship is exacerbating the limerence. Setting boundaries helps in redirecting focus back to the marriage. Additionally, establishing boundaries can also involve setting limits on the amount of time or attention dedicated to thoughts or fantasies about the limerent object. This can help prevent the limerence from becoming all-consuming and damaging to the marriage.

It is important to communicate these boundaries openly and honestly with the limerent object, as well as seek support from a therapist or counselor if needed. By setting boundaries and actively working to redirect focus back to the marriage, individuals can begin to work through and move past the intense emotions of limerence.

Looking for Expert Assistance

Therapy can be helpful for individuals who are dealing with strong feelings of limerence. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and various therapeutic methods can assist in handling overwhelming thoughts and compulsive actions. Additionally, couples therapy can be effective in confronting the effects of limerence on a relationship and in reestablishing trust and closeness.

Self-Care and Personal Growth

Focusing on personal growth and self-care is important. Engaging in hobbies, pursuing personal goals, and practicing mindfulness can help in reducing the intensity of limerent feelings. Personal development can provide a sense of fulfillment that reduces the dependency on the limerent object for emotional satisfaction.

Ways to Focus on Self-Care and Personal Growth

Engaging in Activities

Engage in activities that bring joy and fulfillment, such as painting, hiking, writing, or playing music. These activities not only distract from obsessive thoughts but also promote relaxation and creativity, enhancing overall well-being.

Setting Personal Goals

Establish objectives for oneself and strive to reach them, whether it involves acquiring a new ability, beginning a fresh pastime, or exploring a change in profession. Setting goals offers a feeling of direction and satisfaction, redirecting attention from infatuation towards individual advancement. Establish individual goals and make progress towards attaining them, whether it involves acquiring a new skill, engaging in a new interest, or exploring a different career path. Goal-setting fosters a feeling of direction and success, redirecting attention from infatuation towards self-improvement.

Practicing Mindfulness

Practice mindfulness and meditation to stay present and grounded in the moment, rather than getting lost in thoughts and fantasies about the limerent object. Mindfulness techniques help in managing intrusive thoughts and maintaining emotional stability.

Taking Care of Physical Health

Take care of your physical health through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep. Physical well-being contributes significantly to mental health, reducing stress and improving overall resilience to emotional challenges like limerence. Proper nutrition, exercise, and sleep hygiene support emotional regulation and provide a stable foundation for managing intense emotions.

Seeking Therapy

Seek therapy or counseling to explore and process your emotions and thoughts surrounding limerence. Professional guidance provides tools to manage intense feelings, understand underlying issues, and strengthen coping mechanisms.

Building a Support Network

Surround yourself with supportive and understanding friends and family members who can offer guidance and encouragement. Sharing experiences with trusted individuals alleviates feelings of isolation and provides emotional support during difficult times.

By focusing on self-care and personal growth through these strategies, individuals can effectively manage limerence and prioritize their overall well-being within the context of their marriage.

By focusing on self-care and personal growth, you can cultivate a sense of independence and fulfillment that can help reduce the intensity of limerent feelings and provide a healthier perspective on relationships. It's important to remember that limerence is a natural but temporary state, and by taking care of yourself and investing in your personal growth, you can navigate through these intense emotions and come out stronger on the other side.

Summary of the experience of living and managing a marriage with limerence.

Living with limerence in marriage can be challenging, but it is not insurmountable. By understanding limerence and employing strategies to manage its impact, couples can navigate this difficult period and emerge with a stronger, more resilient relationship. Acknowledgment, communication, professional help, and personal growth are key components in dealing with limerence and preserving the health and happiness of a marriage. It's important for both partners to be honest and open with each other about their feelings and to seek support from a therapist or counselor if needed. By working together to address the root causes of limerence and finding ways to strengthen their bond, couples can move past this challenging time and build a stronger, more fulfilling partnership. With patience, understanding, and a commitment to each other, couples can overcome the obstacles posed by limerence and come out on the other side with a deeper appreciation for each other and a renewed sense of connection.