Online dating has become more and more popular as it provides an easy and convenient way to meet new people. However, like any other form of dating, it can be an emotional rollercoaster ride. While some online dating experiences may be positive and uplifting, others may leave you feeling hurt and disappointed.
Here are some common ways you may experience emotional hurt while online dating and how you can deal with them:
Rejection: Rejection is an inevitable part of dating, and it can hurt when someone you’re interested in doesn’t feel the same way. Online dating can make rejection feel more personal since you may have already invested time and effort in getting to know someone before being rejected.
To deal with rejection, remember that it’s not a reflection of your worth as a person. Everyone has different tastes and preferences, and it’s okay if someone doesn’t see a future with you. Instead of dwelling on the rejection, focus on moving forward and meeting new people.
Ghosting: Ghosting is when someone suddenly stops responding to your messages without any explanation or warning. It can leave you feeling confused, hurt, and rejected.
To cope with ghosting, try not to take it personally. Remember that ghosting is often a reflection of the other person’s inability to communicate their feelings or their own issues. Take some time to process your emotions, and then move on to new potential matches.
Catfishing: Catfishing is when someone creates a fake online profile to trick you. It can leave you feeling embarrassed, hurt and betrayed, especially if you’ve invested time and emotion into the relationship.
To avoid catfishing, be cautious when communicating with new people online. Look for warning signs such as lack of photos, refusal to video chat, or inconsistencies in their stories. Never give your bank details or send money to someone you’ve just met. Always verify the person’s identity before investing too much time and emotion into the relationship.
Miscommunication: Online dating communication can be tricky as it lacks the nuances of face-to-face interaction. Miscommunication can lead to hurt feelings, misunderstandings, and even arguments.
To prevent miscommunication, be clear and concise in your messages. Avoid making assumptions and ask for clarification if you’re unsure about something. Be patient and understanding with your matches and give them the benefit of the doubt before jumping to conclusions.
Burnout: Online dating can be exhausting and overwhelming, especially if you’re constantly swiping and messaging with no success. Burnout can lead to feelings of frustration, disappointment, and even depression.
To avoid burnout, take breaks from online dating when needed. Focus on other aspects of your life such as hobbies, friendships, or personal growth. Remember that online dating is just one avenue for meeting potential partners and that finding the right person takes time and patience.
Online dating is like walking through an emotional minefield. It can be thrilling and enjoyable to meet new people, but it can also leave you feeling hurt and let down. The key is to know what to watch out for and how to handle it all, so you can strut through the online dating scene like a boss, feeling confident and strong.
The eSafetyCommissioner has more information about online dating, including how to keep yourself safe and how to report scams and cyber abuse. If you need support or to talk to someone, Beyond Blue has phone counselling and online chat available all day, every day: 1300 22 4636.
