The Cost of Ecstasy: Beyond the Bedroom:

The initial rush of a new relationship, often called the "honeymoon phase" or "limerence" by psychologists, is a powerful, chemically induced state. Driven by a surge of dopamine, oxytocin, and other neurochemicals, it floods us with euphoria and intense, almost obsessive, attraction. It's during this intoxicating period that we often wear rose-tinted glasses, overlooking potential issues and seeing only an idealized version of our partner. But inevitably, the veil drops. The chemical haze clears, and we're left face-to-face with our partner's authentic self, flaws and all. This stark revelation leads to a deeply uncomfortable question: should you really endure a relationship with someone exhibiting narcissistic or even psychopathic traits, simply for the sake of exceptional sexual intimacy? The Allure and the Aftermath I'll readily admit, in some past relationships, the sexual chemistry was undeniably off the charts . The connection in the be...