You’re involved with someone you like, or maybe even love. Things are going well. Then...nothing.

A cartoon ghost passing through a girl. The text reads,

No reply. No explanation. Just silence.

What happened?

Why did they disappear?

Was it something you did?

Mastering the art of handling rejection by ghosting can help you build resilience and a stronger sense of self-worth.

Ghosting in Romantic Relationships

Ghosting happens when someone suddenly ends all contact without warning or explanation. It can leave you confused, hurt, and full of questions.

Even if the relationship felt casual, the effects of ghosting still sting. And if you were emotionally invested, the silence can feel like betrayal.

Image of a cell phone that shows someone keeps sending messages but doesn't get any reply Image courtesy of Dreamstime

Why Does Ghosting Hurt So Much?

When someone ghosts you in a relationship, you’re left without closure. That makes it harder to move on.

You might experience some or all of these effects of ghosting:

  • rejection and self-doubt

  • anger or sadness

  • obsessing over what went wrong

  • feelings of being “not enough”

These are normal emotional reactions, and you're not alone in feeling this way.

Shrek looks unhappy. The text reads

How to Heal and Move On from Ghosting

Flaticon Icon Acknowledge Your Emotions

Don’t rush to “be okay.” It’s okay to be upset. Write it out, talk to someone you trust, or let yourself feel the grief.

Flaticon Icon Resist the Urge to Chase

Texting repeatedly rarely brings clarity. If someone chooses to disappear, chasing them usually deepens the hurt.

Flaticon Icon Find Your Own Closure

Write a letter you’ll never send. Say everything you wish you could tell them. This can bring surprising relief.

Flaticon Icon Refocus on Yourself

Reinvest in your self-worth. Do things that make you feel connected and joyful, spend time with friends, or learn something new.

You Deserve Better

Being ghosted doesn’t define you. The right partner communicates with respect and care, even when it’s hard.

A cartoon person  jumping through a window to hug a pig. The text reads:

You won’t always get the closure you want from others, but you can create your own. You’re allowed to:

  • feel hurt

  • move on without answers

  • heal

  • smile while walking forward alone

Check out this short video to learn more about self-care after being ghosted — and take the first step toward healing:

Quiz

The person you've been dating for a few months has been ghosting you. What is the healthiest way to respond?

Take Action

Animation Hug GIF

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