From Psychologies · Andréa Lepage · · 50s
How Long to Forget an Ex?
Science shows forgetting an ex takes years, not weeks.
In brief
Science shows forgetting an ex takes years, not weeks. Forgetting an ex takes years, not weeks, as brain science reveals. Originally reported by Psychologies.
Why the Brain Holds On
After a breakup, the brain keeps emotional ties to an ex.
“The brain builds deep emotional security with a partner.”
The Science of Forgetting
A study found most people only half forget an ex after four years.
“After four years, most people have only half the emotional path to forget.”
Who Forgets Faster
People with avoidant attachment forget quicker than anxious ones.
“Avoidant individuals detach faster than those with anxious attachment.”
Gender Doesn't Matter
Men and women take similar time to move on from a breakup.
“Gender has no effect on how long it takes to forget an ex.”
New Relationships Don't Erase
Starting a new relationship doesn't automatically erase old emotional ties.
“The brain doesn't replace one attachment with another immediately.”
What Happens Next
Over time, memories calm and exes become people from the past.
“With time, emotions settle and exes become people you once knew.”
In short
Forgetting an ex takes years, not weeks, as brain science reveals.
