Sad-fishing is a behaviour where individuals intentionally amplify or feign emotional distress online to garner sympathy, attention, or engagement. This trend primarily affects teenagers and young adults, who are not only the main users of social media but also often grapple with feelings of loneliness and the fear of missing out. This makes them more susceptible to what is commonly referred to as ‘social media sadness’. Sad-fishing usually takes the form of cryptic or vague posts, often accompanied by tearful selfies, all crafted to elicit sympathetic responses. While some teenagers may exaggerate their emotions for attention, there are also those who genuinely share their feelings of sadness and loneliness.
Dr. Shripuja Siddamsetty, consultant clinical psychologist, observes, “For some, sad-fishing becomes a way to attract attention, accumulating likes, comments, and shares as a form of affirmation and popularity. It can also serve as a coping mechanism, allowing individuals to release pent-up emotions and alleviate emotional distress, albeit temporarily.”
Why sad-fishing?
Dr. Purnima Nagaraja, holistic mental health practitioner, psychotherapist and wellness expert, Dhrithi Wellness clinic says, “People resort to sad-fishing for various reasons, often rooted in attachment issues and feelings of neglect. They may have anxious attachment styles, making it challenging to express their emotions to parents or friends. Online platforms offer a perceived safe space to convey their unhappiness and seek validation.”
Some turn to sad-fishing as a means of seeking much-needed support during challenging times, genuinely seeking empathy and comfort from their online communities.
Dr. Shripuja adds, “Others use it to validate their emotions, finding solace in the online sympathy that temporarily bolsters their self-esteem. Sad-fishing can foster connections with those who have experienced similar hardships and provide a sense of belonging in online communities. The anonymity of online platforms can make it easier for individuals to open up about sensitive issues they might not feel comfortable discussing in person. Ultimately, understanding these diverse motivations behind sad-fishing is crucial. However, for those grappling with persistent emotional distress or mental health issues, seeking professional help remains paramount for long-term well-being.”
Practical solutions
Addressing sad-fishing requires empathy and understanding. Dr. Purnima Nagaraja suggests, “Dealing with sad-fishing involves offering help on the same online platform, encouraging those in distress to reach out privately for a listening ear. Promoting professional help, even anonymously through helplines, can provide a confidential outlet for pouring out grief and finding solutions.”
Psychologist Kavita shares a personal experience, stating, “I listened to the client with empathy and sympathy, validating the feelings and emotions. Then I explored the insecurities and reasons for sad-fishing. I suggested the client minimize social media usage and start socializing with family and friends instead.”
Moreover, the experts suggest lifestyle changes such as keeping busy and making new friends through classes or hobbies can help combat loneliness and despair. Encouraging individuals to confide in a trusted person, whether a teacher, therapist, friend, or parent, can provide valuable emotional support. Parents are advised to be more involved in their children’s lives, both online and offline, to understand their challenges and concerns. Open communication, monitoring online activities, and addressing potential issues like bullying or loneliness are crucial steps toward helping those engaged in sad-fishing.
Treatment:
The experts say that sad-fishing can be a sign of underlying emotional or mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. Treatment typically involves a combination of therapies and support, including psychotherapy (such as cognitive-behavioural therapy), talk therapy, or medication prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Dr. Sripuja emphasizes, “If you feel someone is sad-fishing, offer empathy, suggest professional help, and recognize the complexity of mental health. Tailor treatment to the individual’s unique needs rather than criticizing their behaviour.”
Celebrities like Kendall Jenner, Justin Bieber, Megan Thee Stallion, Dua Lipa, and rapper Lizzo have been associated with sad-fishing.
Steps to take if you see a sad post:
- Contact the person via private message, phone call, or in-person discussion. Check with your friends and offer the individual encouraging words.
- Inform your friend that you are keeping an eye on him/her and do not judge.
- Encourage friends to seek comfort if they feel vulnerable.
- Being able to reach out online can be empowering for some people. It can help them have their passions validated and their voices heard.
People resort to sad-fishing for various reasons, often rooted in attachment issues and feelings of neglect. They may have anxious attachment styles, making it challenging to express their emotions. Online platforms offer a perceived safe space to convey their unhappiness and seek validation. it is advisable to offer help on the same platform, encouraging those in distress to reach out privately for a listening ear — Dr purnima nagaraja, psychotherapist and wellness expert.
Some use it to validate their emotions, finding solace in the online sympathy that temporarily bolsters their self-esteem. Sad-fishing can foster connections with those who have experienced similar hardships and provide a sense of belonging online. anonymity of online platforms make it easier for individuals to open up about sensitive issues. Ultimately, understanding these diverse motivations behind sad-fishing is crucial — Dr Sripuja Siddamsetty, psychologist
