The process of moving on and letting go of feelings for someone can vary greatly from person to person. There is no specific timeline for how long it takes for your brain to stop loving someone, as it depends on the depth of your feelings, the nature of the relationship, and your individual coping mechanisms.
However, there are several strategies that may help in the healing process and moving on:
Allow yourself to grieve: Acknowledge your feelings and give yourself permission to feel sad, angry, or hurt. It's natural to experience a range of emotions after a breakup or a difficult situation.
Cut off contact: If possible, limit or cut off contact with the person, at least for a period of time. Constant reminders and interactions can hinder the healing process.
Focus on self-care: Take care of yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally. Engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.
Talk to friends or a therapist: Sharing your feelings with trusted friends or seeking professional counseling can be helpful in processing emotions and gaining perspective.
Practice mindfulness and meditation: Mindfulness techniques can assist in managing overwhelming emotions and cultivating a sense of inner peace.
Challenge negative thoughts: Try to recognize and reframe negative thought patterns that may be prolonging your attachment to the person.
Set new goals and priorities: Focusing on personal growth and setting new goals can help you shift your focus away from the past.
Engage in new experiences: Trying out new activities or hobbies can provide a fresh perspective and help create new memories.
Regarding the question of whether it's possible to stop loving someone, even if they did something bad to you in the past, it's important to differentiate between love and attachment. Love is an emotion that can be deeply ingrained, and it might not entirely disappear, especially if the feelings were strong and genuine.
However, it is possible to separate yourself emotionally from someone who has hurt you, and over time, the intensity of those feelings may diminish significantly. Healing from a betrayal or negative experience takes time, self-compassion, and effort. Remember, it's okay to prioritize your well-being and distance yourself from toxic or harmful situations. If you find it challenging to cope on your own, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor to help you work through the process of healing and moving forward.