Do you remember being at recess in third grade and telling your friend about how cute “pineapple” is? Crushes and code names are peak elementary school memories, but that’s not to say that they don’t continue into high school.
When a crush is developed, the person’s hormone levels drastically change, affecting the chemical composition of the human mind. Serotonin levels increase throughout the progression of the crush, a crucial hormone responsible for stabilizing mood and emotions. So, although your little crush may seem silly, there is a real science behind it.
Some people have simple hallway crushes, someone they see only a few times daily and think is cute. Others may have a crush on someone in their class or one of their friends. Sometimes you may feel hopeless, after years and years of secret pining that seems a bit like the ‘To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before’ movies, and you wonder what the next step is. There are two big options: make a move and confess your crush, or move on and find someone else.
Junior Brynn Castle had a crush on her boyfriend for three years before they dated. It all started in seventh grade on the YMCA swim team.
“I was absolutely terrified (to tell him I liked him),” Brynn said, “I feel like I wouldn’t have been ready for a relationship, so I am glad it happened when it did and it was very natural.”
Other people may have a different experience with a long-time crush. Getting rejected is most likely something that everyone fears. According to psychology, the fear of rejection often stems from a deep-rooted desire for social acceptance and belonging. So, putting yourself out there to your crush may be more difficult than dealing with it because of the chance you get rejected.
“I’ve had a crush on a boy since like 5th grade, and it’s getting kind of ridiculous. Everyone says I should just give up,” one student said. “I am probably most scared of feeling dumb because I am sure he doesn’t like me back, so it’s fun to be delusional.”
While innocent crushes can be fun, crushes can often become overwhelming and make you feel helpless. There is no clear-cut answer telling you what you should do, but in reality, there are only two choices. Some people are okay with the silent pining and hopefulness that they may notice you. In contrast, others are determined to do something about it.
Either way, it is important to remember that you are only in high school once and something that seems to be a big deal now will not matter in the long run.
