Dumbitchitis

Dumbitchitis dʌmbɪʧaɪtɪs (noun) A highly contagious condition where someone—usually a loving, loyal, deeply attached partner—stays in a relationship far past its expiration date, despite being treated like an afterthought, emotional punching bag, or a background extra in the rom-com he’s secretly casting with other women. Most commonly diagnosed in people who romanticise red flags, excuse neglect as “he’s just going through something,” and hold onto a single good memory like it’s a coupon for future love. Symptoms may include: - Confusing late-night “you up?” texts with genuine affection - Ignoring the fact he’s DM’ing Sydney Sweeney while calling you his “ride or die” - Feeling grateful he only liked the thirst trap this time and didn’t comment - Defending him to your friends who are 1000% right about him being trash - Staying because of “potential” when the only thing growing is your anxiety Diagnosis: Typically confirmed after multiple ignored boundaries, breadcrumb texts, or when he says, “I’m not ready for anything serious”... while you’re doing his laundry. Cure: Radical self-worth, supportive and honest friends, blocking him on everything, and remembering that love shouldn’t feel like emotional unpaid labor. Full recovery is possible—but relapse risk increases around birthdays, breakups, or late-night stalking.