It’s the spookiest time of year – but this Halloween the ghouls may be lurking in your phone and not on the doorstep.
New research has revealed that Brits are so freaked out by sending messages that we spend an hour a day agonising over what to say.
Cancelling plans (35%), asking someone to repay money (40%) and discussing relationship issues (27%) were among the most chilling subjects, according to the study by Sky Mobile.
But the most terrifying topic of all is asking for a favour, with a whopping 43% of us ranking it top.
The study shows that two in three Brits put off opening texts (66%) as they’re worried about the guilt of leaving friends ‘on read’ (50%) or can’t deal with the stress of crafting the perfect reply (29%). Around 55% have even confessed to leaving texts in their drafts for days, overanalysing every word before finally hitting send.
Meanwhile 18% said they were scared of getting a bad text back and 13% have a phobia of being ghosted with a ‘read’ receipt. And it’s not just romance: Brits have been ghosted by friends (22%), family members (16%) and even in-laws (4%).
If group chats aren’t your bag, you’re not alone. Over a fifth (22%) of UK workers admit work group chats give them the fear, with over a third wishing that they were banned
More than half of Brits (57%) mute group notifications due to stress and a further 40% say they feel pressured to reply instantly, even outside working hours.
When it comes to who Brits are scared to message, bosses come up on top (16%), with ex-friends (13%) and ex-partners (12%) following closely behind.
Ben Case, managing director of connectivity at Sky said: “Some messages might be scary to send, but your mobile plan shouldn’t be, with Sky Mobile’s flexible plans and data rollover, you can enjoy a mobile experience that offers more treats than tricks.”
Top 10 Terrifying Texts to Send and Receive
1. Asking for favours (43%)
2. Asking someone to pay you money they owe (40%)
3. Cancelling plans (35%)
4. Asking to borrow money (31%)
5. Discussing relationship issues (27%)
6. An argumentative message with a friend/family/partner (26%)
7. Making a complaint about a service/product/work done (15%)
8. Cancelling services (14%)
9. Letting colleagues know you’re leaving your job (13%)
10. Ending a relationship (13%)
