Recognizing and Cutting Out Toxic Friends: Expert Advice

The prevalence of the term “toxic” has grown in recent years, referring to various aspects of our lives. From “toxic positivity” to “toxic partners,” this concept now extends to “toxic friends.” Mental Health America highlights that 84 percent of women and 75 percent of men have encountered toxic friendships at some point. Identifying these detrimental relationships is crucial for personal well-being, as they can lead to low self-esteem, self-doubt, and increased stress.

Psychotherapists emphasize that toxic friends can have profound negative impacts. The signs are unmistakable: feeling drained or anxious in their company, enduring belittling remarks, and being caught in gossip cycles. Experts suggest that familiarity, convenience, and fear of confrontation can lead to hanging on to toxic friendships.

Eight distinct types of toxic friends are outlined by psychotherapists, each with distinct characteristics that can corrode one’s well-being. These include the extra-needy friend who takes without giving, the “Negative Nancy” who perpetuates negativity, and the friend who belittles and undermines. The gossiping friend thrives on conflicts, while the inconsiderate friend lacks empathy. The jealous friend begrudges your achievements, and the friend who plays the victim becomes exhausting. Lastly, the hostile friend creates an environment of constant negativity.

Ending these harmful relationships requires careful consideration and self-care. Despite the difficulty, it is advised to have an open and honest conversation if possible. In cases where the toxic friend is part of a larger social circle, maintaining a distance during gatherings can be beneficial.

Ultimately, cutting ties with toxic friends is a step towards better mental health and self-esteem. The aftermath of ending these toxic connections brings about a sense of relief, the release of tension, and newfound empowerment to set boundaries and foster a more positive environment.

Re-reported from the article originally published in Parade