Friendships play a significant role in our lives, providing support, comfort, and a sense of belonging. However, not all friends are healthy or positive influences. Toxic friends can drain our energy, cause emotional distress, and negatively impact our self-esteem. They never are on your team, and they seem to have mastered the art of being a crappy friend to you. They’re your number one hater. Always wanting to stay on your side. But never wanted to be there either.

But somehow, they have managed to stick around, and now you finally woke up and smelled their b.s. Not so wonderful. Not to mention the awful feeling you have when you realize the decision you must make, telling them to shape up or ship out, this will not be easy. You may even have an extremely challenging time just thinking about it. You will need encouragement and support to get it done, especially if it’s an old friend. Here’s how to identify and deal with toxic friends. 

They are constantly negative – If your friend constantly complains and sees the glass as half empty, it can bring you down and affect your mood. They are controlling – If your friend tries to dictate what you wear, who you hang out with, or what you do, it may be a sign of a toxic relationship. They are manipulative – Toxic friends may manipulate you to get what they want, such as playing on your fears or insecurities. They are unreliable – If your friend cancels made plans regularly or doesn’t follow through on promises, it can be a sign that they don’t value your friendship. They are jealous – Jealousy can be toxic, especially if your friend tries to compete with you or belittles your achievements.

Toxic friends can cause emotional harm and negatively impact our mental health. Therefore, it’s essential to recognize the signs of a toxic friendship and take action to protect ourselves. Remember, you deserve healthy and positive relationships, so don’t be afraid to let go of toxic friends and prioritize your well-being. Friendships are a fundamental building block of our lives, but sometimes we may find ourselves in toxic relationships that hold us back and harm our mental and emotional well-being. Here’s how to deal with your toxic friend(s). First, set boundaries – If you’ve identified a toxic friend, clearly communicate your expectations.

Let them know what behavior is unacceptable; make sure you stick to your boundaries. Take a break – A break from a toxic friend is sometimes necessary. It could be a temporary or permanent separation, depending on the situation. Confront the issue – If you’re comfortable, confront your friend about their toxic behavior and express how it’s impacting your friendship. Be transparent and honest in your communication. Seek support – Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who lift you and help you deal with the stress and negativity that toxic friends can bring. It can be a difficult decision, but it’s essential to prioritize your well-being.

Letting it all go: If the toxic behavior continues and you’ve exhausted all options, it may be time to let go of the friendship. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to break up with a toxic friend, it is a crucial step toward reclaiming your life and happiness. Here is a guide to help you through the process and recover from the breakup: Evaluate the relationship: Take time to reflect on the relationship and think about why you want to break up. Write down your thoughts to help you clarify what you need to say. Then, choose the right time and place: Pick a time and place where you feel safe and can talk to your friend privately and calmly.

Be honest: Explain to your friend why you must end the friendship. Be honest about your feelings and why you think the relationship is toxic. Set boundaries: Make it clear that you need space and won’t be communicating with them for a while. It may give you both time to heal and move on. End the conversation: Wrap up by thanking your friend for the time you spent together, but emphasize that it’s time for both of you to move on. Breaking up with a toxic friend is never easy, but it is vital for your well-being and growth. Following these steps and caring for yourself can begin healing and move toward a happier, healthier life.

Recovering from a toxic friendship is essential too. Detoxing from it is vital so is the recovery phase. To detox, you may want to start with any physical items in your home, car, etc. Let’s be honest do you want to remind yourself of what you just got away from? If you must keep certain items, then do so. I suggest not to call around and bad mouth your ex-friend’s business to other friends you may share. It’s just not classy. Leaving a toxic relationship can be a challenging and complex process, but it is crucial to prioritize your safety and well-being.

Build a support system: Surround yourself with friends, family, or a support group that will supply emotional and practical support throughout the process. Plan your exit: It is vital to have a plan in place when leaving a toxic relationship. Make sure to have a safe place, such as a friend’s house or a shelter, and have important documents and belongings packed and ready to go. Be cautious when leaving: Be mindful of potential danger and avoid confrontations. If your partner is abusive or violent, seeking help from law enforcement or a domestic violence hotline is crucial. Cut off communication: After leaving, staying in contact with your partner may be tempting, but it is essential to break off all communication to protect yourself. This includes avoiding phone calls, text messages, and social media. Please seek professional help: Leaving a toxic relationship can be an emotional and traumatic experience. It is essential to seek support from a therapist or counselor to help you process your feelings and move forward. 

Remember, your safety and well-being should always come first. Call 911 or your local emergency services if you are in immediate danger. No matter what kind of relationship, leaving a toxic relationship takes strength and courage, but it is essential to remember that you are not alone and help is available. Take small steps towards a healthier and happier future for yourself. Take control of your life and your mental health. You are worthy and worth it.