Toxic friendships are no joke. Toxic friends lull their peers into a false sense of trust, allowing the toxic friend to create a safety net for themselves on the back of their so-called friends. Some do this intentionally; others, however, do not realize that what they are doing is wrong. How does one tell if they are in a toxic friendship or are a toxic friend? According to Women’s Health magazine, there are signs to look for to help determine if a friendship is toxic. 

“You’re giving more than you’re getting.”

Your friend is constantly asking of you but never returns the favor. Say your friend constantly asks you to help them with their homework or give them answers, but when you ask for help for an assignment they deny you. Or if you buy your friend an extra at lunch, but they won’t pay you back. This can be seen as toxic.

“You no longer trust them.”

When you are unable to count on your friend, then there is no trust in that friendship. Relationships are built on trust. In some cases, breaking trust is okay. For instance, telling an adult about a dangerous situation when a friend asked you not to would be considered a valid reason to break trust. However, extensive trust breaking is a sign of toxicity in the friendship.

“You don’t like yourself around them.”

If you feel bad while hanging out with them, it is probably a toxic relationship. If a friend tends to have you do things or say things that go against your morals, or make you feel awful while doing these things, that is a strong warning sign. It shows how their toxicity is spreading to you, which is never good.

What to do if you are in a toxic friendship.

If you find that you are in a toxic friendship, you should end it. However, ending a toxic friendship can be very difficult. Luckily Women’s Health magazine has answers to that, too. They recommend you talk to your friend confidently and don’t argue. Keep your mind set on the decision to end your friendship. You don’t need to be rude and disrespectful, but you may need to be blunt. 

For a more detailed list and more ways to break off a toxic friendship, check out the link to Women’s Health magazine below. 

https://www.womenshealthmag.com/relationships/a25939904/signs-of-toxic-friendships/