Yes, it is not uncommon for people in an Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or other rehab program to "ghost" or ignore others, especially those who are not directly involved in their treatment or recovery process. There are several reasons why this behavior might occur:
Focus on Recovery: When individuals enter a rehab program, their primary focus is on their own recovery. They may need to disconnect from previous social circles or relationships that could be triggers for their addictive behaviors. This often means temporarily distancing themselves from certain people to stay committed to their sobriety.
Emotional Intensity: Rehab can be emotionally intense and challenging, and individuals may need space and time to process their feelings and experiences. This may lead them to withdraw from social interactions temporarily.
Privacy and Anonymity: Many rehab programs, including AA, emphasize anonymity as a core principle. Participants are encouraged to maintain their privacy and respect the privacy of others in the program. As a result, some individuals might avoid engaging with people outside the rehab program to protect their own and others' confidentiality.
Emotional Vulnerability: During rehab, individuals may face difficult emotions, past traumas, and personal issues. They might find it challenging to maintain social connections outside of the rehab environment during this sensitive time.
Structured Environment: Rehab programs often have a structured daily schedule that includes therapy sessions, group meetings, and other activities. This structured routine can leave little time for external communication, leading to temporary communication gaps.
Fear of Relapse: Some individuals might distance themselves from previous relationships to reduce the risk of being influenced or tempted to relapse by people or situations associated with their past substance use.
It's essential to remember that the decision to ghost or ignore others during rehab is not a reflection of personal judgment or rejection. Instead, it usually stems from the person's focus on self-improvement and creating a conducive environment for their recovery. Additionally, the extent to which people in rehab may ghost or ignore others can vary depending on individual personality traits, the severity of addiction, the rehab program's rules, and other factors.
If you have a loved one in rehab and feel concerned about the lack of communication, it's crucial to respect their need for space and focus on their recovery. It may be helpful to seek guidance from rehab professionals or support groups on how to best support your loved one during their journey to sobriety.