"Psychologist Unpacks 'Sadfishing': The Performance of Suffering"

Sadfishing is the act of exaggerating or falsifying emotional problems on social media for attention and sympathy. Studies show that adolescents, particularly boys, engage in sadfishing due to anxiety, depression, and lack of social support. Symptoms include denial, intoxication, attention-seeking behavior, and anxious attachment. While seeking attention when distressed is normal, sadfishing can lead to distrust and emotional detachment. Recognizing genuine distress involves looking for recurring posts, context, withdrawal, and poor health. Responding with empathy and direct contact is recommended.