Ghosting in Relationships

Hello! Welcome to another edition of the ABC of Mental Health, your partner in navigating the complexities of mental health—one newsletter at a time. This week, we’re diving into Ghosting in Relationships, a topic that many of us can relate to in today’s hyper-connected yet emotionally distant world.

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One relevant recommendation:

Reflect Before Reacting: Getting ghosted hurts, but it’s important to process the experience healthily. Instead of internalising blame, try this:

• Journal Your Feelings: Write down how the ghosting made you feel. It can help you identify patterns and unmet needs.

• Set Boundaries for Closure: Even if you don’t hear back, mentally close that chapter by focusing on your emotional well-being.

• Reframe the Narrative: Remember, ghosting says more about the other person’s communication style than your worth.

Two quotes on Ghosting and Emotional Resilience:

Brené Brown, an American researcher and author, on understanding human behaviour:
"People are hard to hate close up. Move in. Understanding why someone behaves a certain way can help us detach without resentment."

Esther Perel, psychotherapist and relationship expert, on managing unmet expectations:
"When people leave without warning, it’s their inability to deal with conflict, not your inability to be loved. Don’t carry what isn’t yours."

Three TherapyShorts from TST

1. Ghosting and Self-Worth: It’s natural to question your worth when ghosted, but remember, someone else’s lack of communication doesn’t define you. For instance, instead of asking, “What’s wrong with me?” try affirming, “I deserve relationships where I feel seen and valued.”

2. The Psychology Behind Ghosting: Ghosting often stems from a fear of confrontation or emotional vulnerability. Understanding this doesn’t excuse the behaviour but can help reduce feelings of rejection. For example, remind yourself: “Their silence is about their discomfort, not my value.”

3. Healing After Ghosting: Focus on activities that bring you joy and connect with supportive friends or family. For example, if you’ve been ghosted, try scheduling a fun outing or diving into a creative hobby. Honour your emotions, but don’t let the experience define your future relationships.

A QUESTION?

What do you find most challenging about ghosting—closure, self-doubt, or rebuilding trust? Drop in your answers, we love hearing from you :)

Vote here!

Our most popular answer last week for the question what helps you nurture a growth mindset was... *(drumroll please)* - celebrating small wins.

Love and light,

The Social Therapist