Signs you’re a rebound.
Not knowing if you’re a rebound can make a girl really paranoid. That doesn’t mean you have to turn into Sherlock Holmes. “Ask questions,” Dr. Gilda says. She suggests asking: “Who did you date before me?” “How long did it last?” “When did it end?” “Why did it end?”

If your partner is forthcoming with his answers, or he gets all sad and starts shedding tears, you’ll know where you are with him. If you still can’t tell if you’re a rebound, here are a few signs to look for:
  • He ended a relationship recently.
  • His last relationship was a marriage, engagement or live-in situation and it ended less than nine months ago. (Dr. Gilda says it takes about that long for a person to clear their head after a serious relationship).
  • His ex broke up with him.
  • He talks about his ex often.
  • He doesn’t seem interested in anything long-term.

How to deal.
If your guy starts whining about how much he misses his ex or you get a vibe that you’re just his bridge gal, go ahead and cry if you need to. It’s hard to realize someone was just using you or wasting your time, especially if you’ve fallen in love. If you’ve started getting goo-goo eyes but know the relationship won’t go anywhere, it’s best to end it to avoid more pain. “He’s going to leave you as soon as he feels more confident about dating again because he’s practicing with you,” Dr. Gilda says.

Couldn’t care less about him practicing because you’re doing the same or you don’t want a long-term commitment? Do your thing! Rebound relationships can be fun. Just know what you’re up for.

While not all rebound relationships go bust, finding long-lasting and real love on the rebound isn’t very common. “If you think that you’re going to be the exception to the rule, chances are you won’t,” Dr. Gilda says. So, between relationships, take a breather.