Nina Dobrev, who stole hearts as Elena Gilbert in 'The Vampire Diaries', is yet to be seen in a major project after her departure from the CW vampire drama. Although she had said that she was taking a small break from acting, fans are now worried she might be on a downward spiral.

These days, Dobrev spends most of her time partying and indulges in "nonstop" drinking, something that's worrying her friends, a new report said.

"She hasn't even tried to look for work in weeks," a pal revealed to Celeb Dirty Laundry. "It seems like all she wants to do is party these days, it's obvious that she is using it as a coping mechanism for something."

Could ex Ian Somerhalder be the problem? As fans of the actors know, Somerhalder and Dobrev dated for about three years before calling it quits in mid 2013. Although they remained friends post the split, the entry of Nikki Reed into Somerhalder's life is said to have caused a friction between the two former lovers.

Somerhalder's relationship with Reed was also said to be one of the reasons why Dobrev chose to quit the vampire drama.

However, Dobrev soon tried to set the records straight saying her friendship with Somerhalder was stronger than ever and that she still loved him. "I've said this before, that we didn't break up because anything bad happened or because there wasn't love or friendship," the Canadian actress told E! "I love him and the friendship is still strong and I think he's great and I care about him. And that didn't change. Yes, we're professional and that's fine. We were friends long before we dated and we still are now."

However, Somerhalder proved all's not fine between them when he unfollowed Dobrev on Twitter a few weeks back. While it is not immediately known why Somerhalder took the step, speculations are rife it could be due to jealousy over Dobrev's budding romance with Austin Stowell.

The two were recently seen enjoying the French Riviera and kissing on a yacht during their trip.