19/10/2023
The term ‘ ’ was new to me when I heard it several years ago but now it is getting quite common amongst families, friends and those who are in romantic relationships too. Ghosting is a colloquial term used by someone when they are abruptly cut out of relationships, and when the person who was ghosted reaches out for an explanation to get closure, they are met with complete unresponsive silence. Basically by vanishing in thin air, the ghoster on the other hand could be avoiding an awkward and difficult conversation and is not in a position to face the ghostee’s feelings.
Being on the receiving end the ghostee could experience a severe impact on their emotional and mental well-being, mainly because they lose the opportunity to talk through and understand the reason, which can help them heal. Without a clarifying conversation, it can lead to abandonment issues in some while some may even question their self-worth. In the long term the person who got ghosted could display lack of trust in all their future relationships.
Now let us consider the other side of the coin and play devil’s advocate to the ghoster. The ghoster could suffer from social anxiety and/or could lack the necessary communication skills to explain the reason for their actions. Having difficult conversations could stir some buried emotions, which they are still not ready to face. Studies have shown that ghosters have displayed guilt and remorse and have found it difficult to let go of their past experience.
Tips to heal…
Grieve, it can give you an opportunity to work through your own emotions, which will help in getting closure.
Focus on where your presence is valued. Your family and friends who truly care about you will remind you how valuable you are to them.
If you feel you are not coping well, then do make sure you are reaching out for help from a trained professional.
