She posted the photo with one goal in mind—to provoke her ex and get a reaction. What she didn’t realize at the time was how much this act would reveal about her own emotional state and the lingering questions so many people have after a breakup. The thought of whether an ex still thinks about you is something almost everyone struggles with at some point. Unless someone has suffered memory loss, it’s nearly impossible to forget a relationship that impacted you deeply.
When a connection leaves a lasting impression, especially one that changes how you see yourself or the world, it stays with you. For people who are emotionally sensitive or nostalgic, the idea that an ex has completely moved on and forgotten everything can feel like a personal loss all over again. You’re not alone in feeling that way. The aftermath of a breakup often involves more than just the end of a relationship—it stirs up feelings of self-doubt, longing, and endless questions about what the other person might still feel. Even if the relationship ended a while ago, certain memories, objects, or places can bring it all back, leading you to wonder if your ex ever thinks of you too. It’s important to remember that reflecting on a past relationship is normal.
Most people think about their exes occasionally, especially if they shared meaningful experiences. That said, constantly ruminating about the past can keep you emotionally stuck. It may stop you from healing, growing, and creating new, fulfilling experiences. Some people find themselves caught in negative thought patterns, questioning their self-worth or reliving painful moments. These emotional loops can cause anxiety and even depression in some cases. Seeking support through therapy, particularly online therapy, has helped many individuals break these cycles and rediscover themselves after heartbreak.
You may find it helpful to ask yourself a few key questions to gain clarity. Was your relationship mutual, or was it mostly one-sided? If both of you shared responsibilities, laughter, and support, then chances are you left a mark on your ex’s memory too. Time spent together, especially through challenges or mutual achievements, tends to stick with people. Whether it was assembling furniture, planning a trip, or supporting each other through personal hardships, these shared milestones help shape how you both remember the relationship. Even if your ex doesn’t reach out, that doesn’t mean they don’t think about you. Memory is tricky, and people remember different aspects of a relationship based on their own emotional processing. Your ex may not remember the same details you do, but that doesn’t mean the relationship didn’t matter. Often, memories resurface when triggered by something familiar—like a street, a song, or a comment from a friend. Maybe they stumble across an old photo or email, and you come to mind.
Just because you don’t see it doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen. If you communicated in multiple ways—through messages, letters, video chats—those digital memories can randomly pop up and evoke emotions. That said, it’s also important to shift the focus from them to you. You may never truly know what your ex is thinking, and that’s okay. What matters more is what you do with your present. Constantly analyzing your ex’s possible thoughts can distract you from your goals, your healing, and your future. Therapy can be a helpful step in reclaiming your emotional peace. Online platforms now make it easier than ever to access support that fits into your schedule. Whether through video calls, phone sessions, or text-based support, a licensed therapist can help you process your feelings, rebuild your confidence, and focus on what matters most—your well-being. Studies have shown that cognitive behavioral therapy, even when done online, can help people develop healthy coping skills and improve self-esteem after breakups. You don’t need a clinical diagnosis to benefit. If you feel stuck or unable to move on, talking with someone who understands emotional healing can be the first step to finding clarity and inner peace. At the end of the day, life isn’t about whether your ex still thinks about you. It’s about what you want for yourself—your dreams, your personal growth, and the joy you can create moving forward. If you’re ready to start that next chapter, help is available. Focus on yourself, because that’s where true healing begins.
