“Friends – how many of us have them?”

“Friends” by Whodini (1984)

Toxicity comes in all forms but it’s a different kind of hurt when it comes to friendships. Toxic friendships can be anything from a friend seeing you as competition or a friend going out of their way to humiliate you. But how do you really know if you’re friendship is toxic? Keep reading to look for more signs that you’re in a toxic friendship.

1. You find yourself drained by their energy

When you’re surrounded by friends, you should feel overjoyed by their presence. You should feel content in knowing that you’re with people who make you feel like your best self. If you’re with a friend and you feel drained and annoyed by being around them for even five minutes, you might be in a toxic friendship.

2. You find yourself unintentionally in competition with them

Have you ever had a friend constantly go out of their way to make it seem like you were in competition with them? For example, you see your crush out in public and plan on making a move- that is until your friendly suddenly feels they should make the first move before you do. Any behavior of that sort is a sign you’re in a toxic friendship.

3. They don’t take accountability for their actions

The word that everyone loves: accountability. If you’re constantly holding your friend(s) accountable for their actions and they would rather deflect or play victim, you are in a toxic friendship. If you and your friend(s) can’t hold each other accountable, it’s best to go your separate ways.

4. You find yourself disregarding your feelings

You know you’re in a toxic friendship when you find yourself disregarding your feelings to avoid an argument. If your friend(s) dismiss your feelings instead of taking them into consideration, cut them off immediately! You should be able to discuss your feelings without having to water them down to please others.

5. You’re constantly arguing with them

There’s nothing worse than arguing with a friend. If you’re consistently arguing with a friend, you are in a toxic friendship and need to leave immediately. There’s no need to risk emotional damage over someone not willing to communicate effectively.

Friends are supposed to bring positive energy to your life, but unfortunately some people like to make others miserable. If you are in a toxic friendship, cut off all toxic friends and block them on everything. It’s more important to protect your peace than to waste time hoping your friends will change their ways. If you are the toxic friend, remember, your misery does not need company. Leave people alone and attempt to reflect and grow from your behavior.

Have you ever been victim to a toxic friendship? If so, are these some of the things you’ve experienced? Let us know on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest!