Is ghosting break-up style bad for mental health? Ghosting can be emotionally damaging as it leaves the person being ghosted feeling confused and hurt. But does it affect our mental health? Scroll down to learn what experts found and suggest.
What is Ghosting break-up in a relationship? Ghosting in the context of a breakup refers to when one person abruptly ends communication with another without explanation or warning. It has become increasingly common in modern relationships, not only in dating but also in friendships and professional settings.
People may choose to ghost others for various reasons, such as communication difficulties, lack of interest, or to avoid uncomfortable situations. While some may see ghosting as an easy way out of a relationship, it is generally considered a cowardly and immature method of ending a connection. It can lead to unnecessary suffering and confusion for the person who is ghosted.
Understanding the psychology behind ghosting reveals that individuals with avoidant attachment styles may be more inclined to engage in this behavior as a way to protect themselves from emotional discomfort. On the other hand, securely attached individuals are less likely to ghost or experience ghosting.
In contrast to ghosting, the “no contact rule” after a breakup is a deliberate strategy aimed at healing and moving on from a relationship rather than avoiding confrontation. The no contact rule is not meant to be a permanent form of silence but rather a tool for personal growth and recovery.
Is ghosting break-up style bad for mental health?
Yes! The human brain longs for certainty to protect us from potential dangers when confronted with the unknown and not knowing the reason why someone ghosted you may be tougher for the brain to comprehend, compared to when you know the answer. Findings have shown that ghosting break-up style is indeed bad for mental health. Experts are of the opinion that being ghosted can result in feelings of mistrust, abandonment, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Additionally, ghosting can contribute to increased isolation, negative thoughts, and sadness. Individuals who ghost others may also struggle with poor communication skills and anxiety.
Generally, ghosting is more detrimental to mental health in long-term relationships compared to short-term ones.
A psychologist, Dr Zarrabi expanded that “ghosting is a form of social rejection.when someone feels rejected, pain receptors in the brain light up in the same area as they would for physical pain.” She further said “Ghosting is damaging because it can cause people to blame themselves”
However, Dr Zarrabi warned, this can ‘lead to a path of endless wondering and suffering that will only exacerbate your pain and put a strain on your relationship with yourself.’
Ghosting can also lead to infinite self-doubt. Left in the lurch, you can begin to analyze your last interactions with this person and look at the conversations in a different light.
It is essential to recognize that ghosting is not a healthy coping mechanism for managing conflicts within relationships. Instead, open and honest communication is encouraged to promote better mental health outcomes for all parties involved.
How to cope with a ghosting break-up
Being ghosted after a break-up can be a painful experience. Here are some tips on how to cope with it:
- Let yourself feel the loss: It’s important to acknowledge and accept your feelings of sadness and disappointment. Allow yourself to grieve the loss of the relationship.
- Recognize it might not be your fault: It’s easy to blame yourself when someone ghosts you, but the reasons for ghosting are often out of your control. Your date may not be ready for commitment, might get back with an ex, or might just not feel a “spark” with you.
- Focus on other parts of your life: Cultivate a positive sense of self and focus on other aspects of your life, such as hobbies or spending time with loved ones. This can help you move on and heal from the rejection.
- Reach out to loved ones: Surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family who affirm your value and worth can be helpful. You can talk to your loved ones about how you’re feeling, or they can distract you for a bit and remind you of more positive things.
- Consider the no contact rule: The no contact rule is a deliberate strategy aimed at healing and moving on from a relationship rather than avoiding confrontation. It involves cutting off all communication with your ex for a period of time to allow yourself to heal and move on.
Remember that ghosting is not a reflection of your worth or value as a person. It’s important to take care of yourself and focus on your own healing and growth.
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