I just found out I was blocked by a friend on Instagram.
We weren’t even that close — barely interacted, really.
And yet, the moment I noticed I was blocked, it hit me like a wave.
I spiraled.
What did I say? What did I do?
Why does it hurt this much to lose someone I wasn’t even close to?
From an attachment theory lens, I have an anxious attachment style — and rejection, no matter how small, hits hard.
Even a subtle disconnection can feel like abandonment.
Why? Because anxious attachers often grow up in environments where love felt unpredictable — where comfort was inconsistent, affection was conditional, or emotional warmth came and went without warning.
So we learned to scan for signs, to overthink every interaction, to brace for love being taken away at any moment.
That’s why even a distant friend blocking us can feel like a deep wound. It’s not just about them — it taps into something much older.
🌀 So how do we begin to manage this kind of pain?
- Name the emotion.
You’re not “too sensitive.” This is your nervous system remembering old wounds. The pain is real — and it makes sense. - Practice self-compassion.
When that anxiety kicks in, try saying:
"This feeling has a story. And I am safe now."
You don’t have to dismiss or shame the reaction. You just need to meet it with care. - Challenge the thought spiral.
When your brain goes, “I must’ve done something wrong,” ask:
“Is that the only explanation?”
Maybe they’re just clearing out their social feed. Maybe it’s about their season of life.
And even if it was about you — it doesn’t define your worth.
Yes, sudden rejection still stings.
But I’m learning to sit with the pain, to listen to the child inside who fears being left behind — and remind them:
“You’re not alone anymore.”
Healing takes time. But every moment of understanding brings a little more peace.
