How to Deal with a Toxic Friend

Friendships come and go. 

Friends make up a substantial part of our lives. We meet at any given time during our lives, whether it was in high school, at work, or at a family event. You bond and talk about how you will be “besties” forever. But, what happens when that same friend turns toxic? It’s understandable that breaking up with a friend is sometimes harder than saying goodbye to a love interest. We want friendships to last forever. So, how can you deal with a toxic friend before realizing if it’s worth saving? 

First, do your best to address the problem. 

Photography by Alexandra. Image courtesy of Pixabay. 

Friends who are difficult may not see the problem and could use a bit of help to understand what they are doing wrong. People who care about you don’t intentionally want to hurt you. They may be bad at communication or confused at how to express their feelings. 

Second, make sure to let them know how you feel. 

Photography by Alexandra. Image courtesy of Pixabay. 

If you are sad or angry, let them know. You will feel better by expressing your emotions rather than holding back. 

Finally, try to compromise with them. 

Photography by Alexandra. Image courtesy of Pixabay.  

If a friend responds aggressively, then it’s up to you to make a decision. Is the friendship worth trying to mend? 

We know friendships can be tough to balance. As we get older, events come up, family issues arise, and time doesn’t slow down. If you truly feel – after doing your best to mend a bad friendship – emotionally and mentally drained, then you may be better off if this particular person was not in your life. You need to just END it. You aren’y doing yourself any favors if you continue to be in a rut…or a bad friendship. Life is too short to stress. 

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