"Don't jump into a rebound relationship!"
We’ve all heard the warning, but what actually is a rebound relationship?
In this episode, we sit down with Relationship Education teacher Brandi Davis to dive into the truth about rebound relationships—what they are, why they happen, and how to navigate them with honesty and self-awareness.
What Is a Rebound Relationship?
A rebound relationship typically happens shortly after a breakup. One person, still emotionally processing their previous relationship, starts dating someone new. Sometimes it’s intentional, sometimes not. The key feature? One (or both) people are still carrying emotional baggage from a past relationship.
Why Do People Get Into Rebounds?
Breakups hurt. Rebounds often stem from a need to:
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Avoid loneliness – The end of a relationship can feel like a void. A rebound can feel like a quick fix to fill the emotional gap.
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Feel wanted again – Being pursued or valued by someone new can give a quick boost to self-esteem that took a hit during the breakup.
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Distract from pain – New love is exciting, and it’s easy to use that excitement to avoid sitting with grief or regret from the past.
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Prove something – Some jump into a new relationship to “show” their ex or themselves that they’ve moved on—even if they haven’t.
Are Rebound Relationships Always a Bad Idea?
Not necessarily.
While rebound relationships often carry emotional risk, they’re not guaranteed to fail. Some people do find lasting love after a breakup—but success depends on a few key factors:
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Emotional honesty – Are you aware of why you're dating again? Are you being upfront with your new partner about where you’re at?
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Time to process – Have you taken time to grieve, reflect, and learn from your last relationship?
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Healthy expectations – Are you putting pressure on this new person to make you forget your ex, or are you giving them space to be who they really are?
When we rush into something new without reflection, it’s easy to repeat old patterns. But when approached with self-awareness, even a “rebound” can become something meaningful.
Red Flags to Watch For
If you or someone you care about might be in a rebound relationship, here are a few warning signs to look for:
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Constant comparisons to an ex
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Emotionally shutting down or avoiding deeper conversations
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Feeling like you're using or being used
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Moving too fast to “prove” something
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A sense that the relationship is more about distraction than connection
Final Thoughts: Know What You Need
If you're healing from a breakup, it's okay to take your time. There’s no shame in needing space to figure out who you are outside of a relationship.
But if you do find yourself connecting with someone new, ask yourself honestly:
Am I looking for healing, or hiding?
Am I being real about where I’m at, or rushing to feel “okay”?
While rebound relationships can sometimes work, they do deserve careful thought and reflection. The key is to approach it with self-awareness, integrity, and care for both your heart and theirs.
Need more guidance on navigating relationships in a healthy way?
Check out our other blogs and resources at Luli Health — we're here to help you heal and grow.
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