Ghosting

Hello, My Name Is Ghosting.

Ghosting is when a person you are dating, significant other or even friend cuts off all forms of communication with you, without any prior warning or justification. In addition, the ‘ghoster’ will ignore any form of reach out made by you, or a friend on your behalf.

It will have you…

1) Feeling ashamed, worthless and wondering if it’s your fault (similar to gaslighting)

2) Feeling a sense of low self-esteem and self worth. In fact, since ghosting is so sudden it can actually cause physical pain. Social rejection such as ghosting can cause severe trauma.

3) Cautious of starting a new relationship due to the fear of being ghosted. In fact, you might end up ghosting a romantic partner because you are afraid of facing that same rejection. Ghosting might become a defense mechanism.

Okay, now, how do I move forward?

It is important to remember that those who ghost don’t have the best emotional intelligence in the first place (perhaps it was a blessing a disguise for you). They may not even realise what they did was hurtful. Remember: These people do not handle any form of confrontation well, so pursuing answers will be of little/no comfort to you.

1) Acknowledge the feeling of rejection, and slowly let go of that relationship

2) Take your time to immerse yourself in hobbies and strengthening relationships with friends and family.

3) Work on boosting your self-esteem, without seeking validation from others for it.

Post-Gaslight Affirmation

[Name of Person] ghosting is about their fears, not mine. I am strong and worthy.

Source: Huffington Post, Psychology Today; Researcher: Devmi Epaarachchi