Sadfishing is sharing exaggerated woes on social media for sympathy, not support. It's like emotional bait, craving attention but dismissing help, here are some things to know.
1
Sadfishing posts tend to focus on the downers of life breakups, failures and illnesses, often presented dramatically.
2
These posts go beyond simply venting and seem to crave excessive sympathy or concern from others.
3
Sadfishing posts may be purposely unclear about the situation, leaving people to comment and ask questions, keeping the focus on the poster.
4
The negativity is often exaggerated, and the poster may downplay any attempts to help or offer solutions.
5
The language used emphasizes the poster's misfortune and may place blame on others or imply a sense of helplessness.
6
True sadness is occasional, but sadfishing often involves a pattern of negativity and downbeat posts.
7
People who genuinely struggle may welcome support, but sadfishers may reject helpful comments or suggestions.