The idea of love is so pervasive in our culture that it’s hard to think of a time when the concept wasn’t a part of your life. The dictionary defines it as an intense feeling of affection or a strong attraction for another person, but the ways that people express this emotion are so varied and diverse that it’s nearly impossible to define. Whether it’s romantic, platonic, or companionate, love can be expressed in an endless number of ways and is often the source of some of our most important decisions and memories.
Despite the many different types of love and ways that it can be expressed, the feelings are incredibly similar across individuals. This is because love is actually a collection of emotions that can be triggered by various stimuli. For example, lust might be an important component of love in some individuals because it stimulates physical attraction and sexual procreation, while attachment may be an important aspect of loving someone because it promotes familial bonding. But love can also be triggered by many other things, including the sense of awe that can come from seeing an incredible landscape or the feeling of fulfillment that comes from accomplishing something meaningful.
While it’s easy to see why these different forms of love could be considered the same emotion, psychologists and researchers disagree somewhat about how to categorize love. Some believe that it’s not actually an emotion at all, but a combination of primary emotions, while others argue that it’s essential to our well-being and that we must always be seeking it out.
Whatever you call it, one thing is clear: when you’re in love, your brain is changing. Several areas of the brain are involved in this process, including the hypothalamus and regions that produce neurotransmitters like dopamine. When these chemicals are released in your body, you feel a surge of excitement and euphoria. You can also be motivated to take on new behaviors that benefit your partner or the relationship as a whole. This might include going to therapy for a mental health issue, eating healthier foods, or trying out new hobbies.
When you love someone, you’re willing to do almost anything for them. It can be as simple as showing up for them, as complex as caring for them when they’re sick, or as difficult as making sacrifices in order to help them succeed. Ultimately, your actions in a relationship determine whether or not you’re in love.