Ghosting often brings emotional pain and leaves people feeling bewildered, according to Dr. Jyoti Kapoor, the founder-director and senior psychiatrist at Manasthali. Let’s explore strategies for dealing with the experience of being ghosted.
Ghosting, a phenomenon that’s not limited to the amphibian world, is a prevalent issue in modern relationships. A study revealed that approximately 25% of individuals, both men and women, have experienced ghosting, while 22% have admitted to ghosting someone themselves.
People like Arpita Chowdhury, a 22-year-old journalist, have found themselves on both sides of the ghosting coin. She described her experiences of being “left on seen,” stopped receiving replies, and having ties abruptly severed. Similar stories abound, where the convenience of digital media makes it easier to disconnect.
While some, like Anushka Pandey, a 23-year-old copywriter, ghost when faced with incompatible values or inappropriate advances, others, like Parvati Malik, 24, encounter ghosting after nurturing hopes for a deeper connection.
The phenomenon of ghosting often leaves those who experience it emotionally conflicted and questioning their self-worth. Anxiety and self-esteem issues can creep in, making the aftermath challenging.
Understanding ghosting, according to experts, involves recognizing it as an abrupt and unexplained cessation of communication in any stage of a relationship. Reasons for ghosting vary and can be complex. It is often linked to avoiding confrontations or signaling a loss of interest without having to articulate it explicitly.
Ghosting can have profound effects on mental health, causing emotional distress, feelings of abandonment, and a negative impact on self-esteem, trust, and the ability to trust future relationships. Coping strategies include acknowledging feelings, seeking support, avoiding self-blame, taking time to heal, and focusing on self-improvement.
Ghosting, a modern dating phenomenon, can leave individuals emotionally hurt and confused. Dr. Jyoti Kapoor, founder-director and senior psychiatrist at Manasthali, provides insights into how to cope with being ghosted:
- Acknowledge Your Feelings: Allow yourself to experience and process the emotions associated with being ghosted. Don’t suppress or ignore your feelings.
- Seek Support: Reach out to friends, therapists, or counselors to talk about your feelings. They can provide a listening ear and valuable insights.
- Avoid Self-Blame: Remember that ghosting reflects the other person’s behavior and is not a reflection of your self-worth.
- Don’t Rush into New Relationships: Take the time to heal and avoid hastily jumping into new relationships.
- Focus on Self-Improvement: Use this time for activities that bring you happiness and personal growth.
- Consider Closure for Yourself: Writing a letter to the person who ghosted you can help you process your emotions and find closure.
- Resist the Urge to Keep Reaching Out: Understand that their silence is a message, and it’s essential to move forward.
Remember, being ghosted is not a reflection of your worth. It’s an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. Surround yourself with people who respect and value you, and approach future relationships with newfound self-worth. You deserve better than a ‘ghost.’
*Names changed on request for anonymity
