It could be someone who doesnt know youre crushing on them or someone who doesnt feel the same way.
It could be a flirtation orunofficial situationshipthat doesnt turn into something more.
Or, it could just be the wrong place or the wrong time for the two of you.
Verywell Mind / Stocksy
Weve all been there.
We also ask the relationship expert for some tips to help you get over someone you never actually dated.
At a Glance
Getting over someone youve never dated can be really hard.
Youve wished upon a thousand stars and built fairytale castles in the air, picturing your happy ending together.
However, despite all your fantasies, things dont work out.
Limit contact with them for some time, while you focus on yourself.
Lean on loved ones for support and TLC.
Shift your focus from what could have been to what can be and go get it!
Unrequited love is characterized by:
But We Never Actually Dated…
These are some of the reasons why it can be hard to get over someone youve never truly dated.
It can be hard to let go of this illusion of perfection, Dr. Romanoff explains.
Without a clear ending, all the “what-ifs” can make it hard to move on.
The lack ofclosurecan leave your emotions suspended in limbo.
It can be hard to let go of all that and accept that there cant be anything between you.
Hope is a powerful emotion that can create significant emotional attachment.
Loneliness
The idea of beingalonescares all of us.
Letting them go hurts more because we feel like weve lost than because we miss them.
How Long Will It Take to Get Over Them?
A 2021 review notes that unrequited love lasts an average of 10 to 17 months.
Closure, whether through a conversation or a realization, can help expedite the healing process.
Having a strong support system to rely on can also play a major role.
Ultimately, it also depends on you and your willingness to move on.
Strategies for Emotional Healing
These are some strategies that can help you heal emotionally and move on.
The answers may go further back than you think.
Letting gois not easy and its natural to feel sadness, disappointment, regret, anger, and frustration.
Give yourself time to feel all the feels and process your emotions.
Self-Care
As you go through this process, focus on your physical and mental well-being.
Make an effort to expose yourself to new people and experiences.
Putting yourself out there is scary but it can be very rewarding!
Seeking Support
Reach out to friends and family forsupport.
Spending time with them can help remind you that youre loved and cared for.
If youre struggling to cope, it may also be helpful to see a mental healthcare provider.
They can help you explore what youre feeling and why.
Keep in Mind
Getting over someone can be hard, even if you havent actually dated them.
Instead of focusing on what could have been, explore what can be.
One day youll find the right fit for you and itll be worth it.
2021 Apr 12;12:573123. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.573123
