I have had times when this happens. If I haven't had contact, in person, via phone etc. with someone .. they start to disappear....it is like an unconscious emotional protection
One therapist told me it's like I have a leaky bucket, and the longer I don't have contact with a person.. the more liquid has leaked out, until it's like empty. but any contact with said person will add liquid into the bucket again.
Did that make any sense???