Bounce Back
Harmful or Helpful? An analysis on rebound relationships.
BY Katie Browne ★ April 26th, 2026
Design by: Maisy Wood
In the midst of a painful breakup, survival seems to come in the form of momentary relief and distractions. Walking to order a really good iced latte, filling your online shopping cart…talking to a new guy. A rebound is a timeless quick fix. But does it really work? Can a rebound turn into the real thing, or is it just a ticking time bomb?
Rebound relationships tend to have a negative connotation. The general consensus is that these relationships are only short-term, just a useful tactic to get over an ex or make someone jealous. It glosses over healing and ignores emotional awareness. But what if rebound relationships are not all bad? Can they sometimes work? It depends.
Rebound relationships can absolutely work if approached in the right way. Listen, a rebound is never going to be your soulmate if you go into the relationship with the intention of using somebody, knowing you don't and never will have true feelings. It’s a recipe for disaster. If you approach a person, intending only to use them, you’re more likely to feel lonelier afterwards and likely hurt other people in the process. But maybe this isn’t how you feel. Let’s say you meet someone you really do like but feel guilty about moving on so fast and having a “rebound.”
We can’t always control who we’re attracted to. Despite having lingering feelings for an ex, if you come across someone you like, you don’t want to pass up on something that could be really good.
So, to make sure you are accurately distinguishing a rebound versus a potential boyfriend, make sure you ask yourself this question: Am I using this person, or do I actually like them? People should never be used to invoke jealousy or temporarily relieve the pain of a past breakup. But they can be explored further if you think you might really like them.
It’s okay to like other people soon after a breakup, and it isn’t something you should feel guilty for. Sometimes the best things come when we least expect them. Don’t pass up on an opportunity, as long as it's with good intentions.
Edited by: Anna Altman