Ghosting is abruptly ending communication with someone without explanation. The concept most often refers to romantic relationships but can also describe disappearances from friendships and the workplace.
What Is Ghosting? (Plain Language Explanation)
Ghosting refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Ghosting
- Symptoms: The specific ways ghosting shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen ghosting
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When ghosting occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Ghosting
- Ghosting is far more common than most people realize
- Ghosting is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with ghosting see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about ghosting is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing ghosting, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.