Free online support group for victims of catfishing

National mental health charity Turn2Me, headed up by Tullamore native Fiona O'Malley is launching a free online support group for people who have been victims of catfishing. The first session will take place on Wednesday, February 5 at 7pm, providing a safe, confidential, and supportive space for those who have been deceived by false online identities.

Catfishing, a deceptive practice where people create fake personas online to manipulate or exploit others, can have severe mental health consequences. Victims often experience betrayal, emotional distress, shame, and damaged self-esteem. Turn2Me’s new support group will help participants navigate their experiences, offering guidance from counsellors and the opportunity to connect with others who have been through similar situations.

Mental Health Impacts of Catfishing

Betrayal and Trust Issues. Victims of catfishing often develop deep trust issues after discovering the deception. It can become difficult to trust new relationships, both online and offline, which can lead to social withdrawal and isolation.

Anxiety and Hypervigilance. Many victims experience persistent anxiety, particularly regarding future interactions and relationships. They may become overly cautious online, fearing another deception, and may struggle with hypervigilance in their daily lives.

Depression and Low Self-Esteem. Realising that an emotional connection was built on a lie can lead to feelings of worthlessness, shame, and self-doubt. Victims often question their judgment, wondering how they failed to recognise the deception, which can contribute to depression, further shame and self-isolation.

Emotional Trauma and PTSD-like Symptoms. Some victims report PTSD-like symptoms, including flashbacks, replaying interactions and conversations in their mind, nightmares, and difficulty forming new relationships. The emotional trauma caused by catfishing can linger for years, impacting personal and professional life.

Social Embarrassment and Stigma. Victims may feel embarrassed or ashamed to admit they were catfished, fearing judgment from others. This stigma can prevent them from seeking support, worsening feelings of loneliness and isolation. This shame and hesitancy to admit you’ve been the victim of catfishing may mean the deceptive practice is far more common than we think.

A Safe and Supportive Space

Turn2Me’s Catfishing Support Group aims to provide victims with the tools and emotional support they need to heal and rebuild confidence. The group will be:

Safe and Confidential – Participants can share their experiences in a secure, anonymous environment, free from judgment.

Led by Professionals – Sessions will be facilitated by fully accredited professional psychotherapists, ensuring expert guidance and emotional support.

Focused on Healing and Recovery – Topics will include rebuilding trust, coping strategies, and self-compassion, helping victims regain confidence in themselves and their relationships.

“Being catfished is a painful experience that can leave lasting emotional scars,” said Fiona O’Malley, CEO of Turn2Me. “Many victims suffer in silence, feeling embarrassed or isolated. This support group will provide a space where people can heal, connect with others who truly understand, and learn healthy coping mechanisms. No one should have to go through this alone.”

The Catfishing Support Group is open to anyone who has been deceived by a fake online persona, regardless of the circumstances. Whether the experience involved romantic relationships, friendships, or financial scams, the group is designed to provide understanding and support.

How to Register

Those interested in joining can sign up for free at www.Turn2Me.ie. The support group will run on the February 5 at 7pm online, making it accessible to people across Ireland.

Turn2Me encourages anyone affected by catfishing to attend and take the first step toward emotional recovery. The charity also offers up to six free counselling sessions to adults living in Ireland, all available at Turn2Me.ie