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What to Do When Your Ex Reaches Back Out, According to a Relationship Expert

A therapist explains why exes come back, when reconnecting might be worth it, and how to finally move on if it isn’t.

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We’re currently in the midst of Mercury retrograde and cuffing season…‘Tis the season of the exes. Here’s why so many exes circle back into our lives—and how to either start fresh or cut them off for good.

Why It’s Common for Exes to Return

Exes return for a variety of reasons, from seeking comfort to merely missing the love you once gave them. However, this can also be a result of your behavior. For example, do you leave the door open to communication and possible reconnection? Did you refuse to go no-contact during your breakup? Are you keeping your exes around as “friends” without maintaining boundaries?

“Continued contact can maintain the emotional connection, while messages or reunions can temporarily alleviate feelings of loneliness or uncertainty,” says Stephanie Lewis, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, CCTP,........

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