Many young people have published emotional content that generates doubts or concerns
A new trend among young people on social media has sparked concern: “sadfishing”, i.e. exaggerating one’s emotional state to attract the attention of others. This can be a photo or video in which the teenager appears sad, or even a dark quote, with the aim of attracting the reader’s attention and generating engagement.
Origins of the term “sadfishing”
The phenomenon was defined by researchers in an article on Journal of American College Healthin 2021. But the term was actually coined by a journalist named Rebecca Reid, referring to a girl who posted a sob story about her “debilitating struggle” with acne and received a huge response from her followers.
It was later revealed that the post was just a marketing scheme for a skincare campaign in collaboration with a famous brand. The term, which refers to “fishing”, a kind of computer scam used to trick people into revealing confidential data, has fallen like a glove and has also begun to be adopted by researchers in the field of mental health.
The risks of the phenomenon
The big problem caused by “sadfishing” is that, on social media, it is very difficult to distinguish what is real or fake. And, while many posts may just be a strategy to attract the attention of followers, there are others that may even represent a cry for help to be taken seriously.
In cases where young people need help, there is still a risk of receiving negative or humiliating responses, which can lead to increased stress and anxiety, or even encourage self-harm.
Why are young people “sad fish”?
Experts say “sadfishing” can occur because the teen is struggling and wants others to know it. They often don’t have someone they feel comfortable sharing their problems with, so they turn to social networks, which are almost like extensions of their body.
A 2023 study, published in BMC Psychology Journalfound that adolescents who engage in sadfishing show signs of anxiety and depression, and low social support is a significant factor in the behavior.
The researchers also found that boys were more likely to “sadfish” than girls at age 12, but this changes over time. For girls the trend increases with age.
Another more recent study showed that “sadfishing” is more common among people who have difficulty dealing with complex issues or use social media under the influence of alcohol or other substances. The work also found that subjects with attention-seeking behaviors, due to a personality disorder known as histrionics, were also more likely to do so.
“‘Sadfishing’ causes a response or reaction,” explains Reena Patel, a parenting expert, in a statement to the site Parents. “While not necessarily a sincere response, any type of response can provide that brief dopamine rush of attention your child gets after an emotionally charged post.”
If your child practices “sad fishing”
If you’re not sure whether your child is “sad,” experts suggest looking for a pattern of emotional posts that address personal issues or evoke a feeling of sadness.
Contradictory behavior—having an online presence or posts that don’t match your real-life behavior—is another sign that deserves attention.
If you come across a post like this, it’s important to talk to the young person to try to understand what they’re feeling. It is not always necessary to mention the publication directly, so as not to cause embarrassment, but only to offer a safe space in which the teenager can open up without judgement.
If necessary, seek out a mental health professional, or even a counselor or other trusted adult with whom the young person feels safe talking.
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), it is also recommended that parents turn on privacy settings and monitor their children’s accounts.
Other warning signs
There are also other signs in social media posts, beyond “sadfishing,” that should be taken seriously by parents and educators:
– Post about donations of goods
– Mention desperation, isolation and “not being around for a long time”
– Mention sleep disorders
– Post content that promotes self-harm
Services that can help
There are some really cool services you can count on if you need help or want to help someone who is suffering. One of these is the CVV (Centre for the Valorization of Life), which you can access by calling 188 or via the website (cvv.org.br). There is also a chat that can be used to connect with someone.
Another site that offers this type of service is Mapa da Saúde Mental (mapasaudemental.com.br), with several support options.
Unicef (United Nations Children’s Fund) has also launched a welcome listening channel for teenagers and young people via chatbot, which can be accessed through the Pode Falar network.
You can still ask for professional help from the Caps, in the Basic Health Units (Family Health, Post Offices and Health Centres), or in the psychiatric sector of hospitals.
If you suspect an emergency, don’t hesitate: call Samu (192) or look for an emergency service (in emergency rooms, hospitals or a 24-hour UPA).
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
