What Is 'Sadfishing'? A Problematic Pathological Social Media Trend

The phenomenon of "sadfishing," a term describing the act of posting exaggerated emotional stories on social media to garner sympathy, has sparked significant discussion. This behaviour, identified in a 2021 research paper published in the Journal of American College, highlights a trend where users often display anxious attachment. The paper concluded that such actions might not be triggered by an immediate lack of social support but rather stem from a deeper, persistent trait of anxious attachment.

Historical Context and Recent Developments

Dr. Don Grant, a national adviser for Healthy Device Management at Newport Healthcare in Los Angeles, notes that "sadfishing" is not a novel phenomenon. He references a 2019 campaign featuring Kendall Jenner, who posted about her struggle with acne as part of her partnership with Proactiv, bringing the trend into the spotlight.

Grant emphasises the importance of understanding the motivations behind social media posts. He encourages individuals to reflect on why they share certain aspects of their lives online, especially those outside their immediate circle. He suggests that while "sadfishing" can be concerning, it is highly case-dependent. Chronic sadfishing might indicate a deeper issue, whereas occasional posts might be less alarming, sometimes even influenced by alcohol or other substances.

Real-World Implications

Grant recounts instances where "sadfishing" posts have led to welfare checks, highlighting the potential seriousness of these cries for help. He notes that the trend spans various age groups and platforms, with varying intensity depending on the medium. For example, video-based platforms like TikTok can amplify the emotional impact compared to static posts on other social media.

Demographic Trends

According to the Pew Research Center, younger adults in the US are significantly more likely to use platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. 62 per cent of 18 to 29-year-olds use TikTok, compared to just 10% of adults aged 65 and older. This demographic trend suggests that sadfishing might be more prevalent among younger users who are more active on these platforms.

Public Perception

Public reactions to sadfishing vary. Some see it as attention-seeking behaviour possibly rooted in genuine anxiety or depression. Others view it as typical behaviour for teenagers and young adults. This divergence in opinion represents the complexity of the trend and its various interpretations.

The Role of Social Media

While social media can serve as a valuable connector, Grant warns against relying on it as the primary means of forming connections. He advocates for rebuilding in-person relationships and seeking professional mental health support as more effective alternatives to sharing emotional stories online.

Taking Action

Grant advises that if a social media post raises concern for a loved one, reaching out directly via phone can be more impactful than interacting online. He believes that real-life connections are essential in addressing and mitigating the underlying issues that lead to sadfishing.

The "sadfishing" trend reveals the intricate relationship between social media behaviour and mental health. While it can sometimes be a harmless expression of momentary emotions, it can also signal deeper, more persistent issues. Understanding the motivations behind sadfishing and promoting real-life connections are crucial steps in addressing this trend effectively.