How To Deal With Being Ignored By Someone You Care About

Ashley Cropper | The Sense Hub

When someone you’re close to starts to ignore you out of nowhere, it can send you spiralling.

Maybe you got into an argument, or they’re going through a tough time, or maybe they just started blanking you out of nowhere. As gut-wrenching as it is, it’s important to try not to let it get you down if at all possible. Here’s how to deal with the situation maturely and in a more measured way.

1. Take a step back and assess the situation objectively.

Before jumping to conclusions, take a moment to evaluate what’s really going on. Are they genuinely ignoring you, or could they be dealing with their own issues? Sometimes, people withdraw when they’re stressed or overwhelmed. Try to look at the situation from different angles before deciding on your next move.

2. Resist the urge to bombard them with messages.

It’s tempting to keep reaching out when someone’s ignoring you, but this can often make things worse. Constantly messaging or calling might push them further away. Give them some space and time. If they’re dealing with personal issues, they might appreciate the breathing room.

3. Focus on self-care and your own mental health.

Being ignored can take a toll on your self-esteem. Use this time to focus on yourself. Engage in activities you enjoy, spend time with supportive friends, or try a new hobby. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s necessary for your mental health and can help you approach the situation with a clearer mind.

4. Reach out to your support network for comfort.

Don’t isolate yourself during this difficult time. Talk to friends or family members you trust. They can offer a different perspective on the situation and provide emotional support. Sometimes, just voicing your feelings can help you process them better and feel less alone.

5. Write down your thoughts and feelings in a journal.

Journaling can be a great way to express your emotions without fear of judgement. Write about how being ignored makes you feel, what you wish you could say to the person, and any ideas you have for moving forward. This can help you organise your thoughts and might even lead to some insights about the situation.

6. Practise mindfulness to stay grounded in the present.

When someone’s ignoring you, it’s easy to get caught up in anxious thoughts about the past or future. Mindfulness techniques, like meditation or deep breathing exercises, can help bring you back to the present moment. This can reduce stress and help you approach the situation more calmly.

7. Set boundaries for your own peace of mind.

Decide how long you’re willing to wait for a response or how much effort you’ll put into reaching out. Setting these boundaries for yourself can prevent you from getting stuck in a cycle of constant worry and disappointment. It’s okay to decide that you need to move on for your own sake.

8. Consider sending a final, clear message.

If you’ve given them space and still haven’t heard back, it might be worth sending one last message. Be clear about your feelings and your desire to communicate. Let them know you’re there to talk when they’re ready, but also that you’ll be stepping back if they need space. This puts the ball in their court.

9. Explore new interests and expand your social circle.

Use this time to branch out and meet new people. Join a club, take a class, or volunteer for a cause you care about. Expanding your social circle can provide a fresh perspective and remind you that there are many people out there who value your company and conversation.

10. Reflect on the relationship and its patterns.

Take some time to think about your relationship with this person. Is this a one-off occurrence, or part of a pattern? Sometimes, being ignored can be a wake-up call to re-evaluate the relationship and whether it’s meeting your needs. It’s okay to admit that a relationship might not be as healthy or balanced as you thought.

11. Avoid making assumptions about their reasons.

It’s natural to try to guess why someone’s ignoring you, but these guesses are often inaccurate and can cause more stress. Instead of assuming the worst, remind yourself that you don’t know what’s going on in their life. They might be dealing with issues you’re unaware of.

12. Keep yourself busy with meaningful activities.

Idle time can lead to overthinking. Fill your days with activities that make you feel productive and fulfilled. Work on a project you’ve been putting off, learn a new skill, or dedicate time to your hobbies. Staying busy can help take your mind off the situation and boost your self-esteem.

13. Remember that their behaviour reflects on them, not you.

It’s easy to blame yourself when someone ignores you, but their actions say more about them than about you. Everyone deserves basic respect and communication. If someone chooses to ignore you without explanation, that’s a reflection of their communication skills and emotional maturity, not your worth as a person.

14. Consider whether reconciliation is truly what you want.

As time passes, ask yourself if you still want to reconnect with this person. Sometimes, being ignored can be a blessing in disguise, showing you that the relationship might not be as valuable as you thought. It’s okay to decide that you’re better off moving on, even if they do eventually reach out.

15. Focus on the people who do value your presence.

Instead of fixating on the person who’s ignoring you, shift your attention to the people in your life who consistently show up for you. Nurture these positive relationships. Spend time with friends and family who make you feel valued and appreciated. These are the relationships worth investing in.