Why Crushes Hit So Hard

A crush can feel like the most beautiful and terrifying thing at the same time. Your heart races, your thoughts speed up, you replay conversations, and suddenly one person has the power to change your entire mood. It’s intense — because emotions at your age are naturally amplified.

When you like someone, your brain releases dopamine, making every interaction feel electric. But it also releases fear: “Do they like me back?” “Am I enough?” “Will I embarrass myself?” The anxiety doesn’t mean something is wrong — it means you care deeply.

Many teens assume everyone else is confident in love, but that’s not true. Almost everyone is scared of rejection. Most people act chill to protect their feelings.

Whether the crush works out or not, it doesn’t define your worth. You are not unlovable if someone doesn’t choose you. Sometimes timing is wrong. Sometimes they’re not ready. Sometimes they’re not the right person for your emotional world.

Let yourself enjoy the feeling without letting it control you. Crushes teach you how your heart works — what excites you, what scares you, what you desire. That’s emotional growth.