Yes, it is possible to have an imaginary friendship with someone who doesn't exist. Imaginary friendships are a form of social interaction and connection that some individuals create in their minds to fulfill emotional or psychological needs. These friendships can involve imaginary friends or fictional characters with whom they feel a sense of companionship, understanding, and support.
Imaginary friendships are most common in childhood, where children might create imaginary friends to cope with loneliness, express creativity, or navigate challenging situations. Imaginary friends can serve as confidants, playmates, or protectors, and they often provide comfort and companionship.
In some cases, individuals may continue to have imaginary friendships into adulthood. These imaginary relationships might emerge as a response to feelings of isolation, as a coping mechanism for stress or trauma, or simply as a way to indulge in creativity and imagination.
While imaginary friendships can provide some emotional benefits and serve as an outlet for self-expression, it's essential to strike a healthy balance between the imaginary world and real-world social interactions. If someone finds that their imaginary friendships are significantly interfering with their ability to connect with real people or causing distress, seeking support from a mental health professional can be beneficial. A therapist or counselor can help explore the underlying reasons behind these relationships and assist in developing healthier social connections.