In a Toxic Friendship? Here’s What to Look For (and How to Handle It)

Friendship is an essential part of human life, but not all friendships are healthy. Toxic friendships can be emotionally draining and negatively impact our mental health. Toxic friendships can be challenging to identify, and many people may not even realize they are in one until it's too late. Here's how it feels when you are in a toxic friendship and what you can do about it.

You Feel Drained and Exhausted

Toxic friendships can be emotionally exhausting. When you are in a toxic friendship, you might feel like you're constantly walking on eggshells around your friend. You may feel like you're always giving, but never receiving anything in return. Toxic friends can be manipulative, and you might find yourself doing things you don't want to do just to keep your friend happy.

You Don't Feel Like Yourself

In a toxic friendship, you might feel like you can't be yourself around your friend. You might feel like you have to act a certain way or say certain things to keep your friend happy. You might even feel like you're hiding parts of yourself from your friend because you're afraid of their reaction.

You're Constantly Criticized

Toxic friends are often critical of everything you do. They might criticize your appearance, your choices, or your behavior. They might make you feel like you're never good enough or that you're always doing something wrong.

You're Afraid to Speak Up

When you're in a toxic friendship, you might be afraid to speak up when something is bothering you. You might be afraid of your friend's reaction or worried that they will stop being your friend if you say something. You might even convince yourself that it's better to keep quiet and avoid conflict.

You Feel Guilty

Toxic friends can make you feel guilty for things that aren't your fault. They might blame you for their problems or make you feel like you're responsible for their happiness. You might feel like you're walking on eggshells around your friend, afraid that you'll say or do something that will upset them.

What You Can Do About It

If you think you're in a toxic friendship, the first step is to acknowledge it. You don't have to put up with emotional abuse or manipulation from anyone, even a friend. Here are a few things you can do:

Set Boundaries

Setting boundaries is an essential part of any healthy relationship. If your friend is constantly crossing boundaries, it's time to set some clear limits. Let your friend know what you will and won't tolerate and stick to your boundaries.

Communicate Openly

Communication is key in any relationship. If something is bothering you, speak up. It's better to address the issue early on than to let it fester and grow into something more significant.

Take a Break

If your friendship is causing you more stress than joy, it might be time to take a break. Give yourself some space and time to think about whether you want to continue the friendship.

Seek Support

Toxic friendships can be emotionally draining, and it's essential to seek support from people who care about you. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist about what you're going through.

In conclusion, toxic friendships can be emotionally draining and negatively impact our mental health. If you're in a toxic friendship, it's essential to acknowledge it, set boundaries, communicate openly, take a break, and seek support. Remember that you don't have to put up with emotional abuse or manipulation from anyone, even a friend. Your mental health and wellbeing are essential, and you deserve healthy relationships in your life.