Friendships are unpredictable and you never know how one could turn out. In most cases, friends are there for you whenever you need it and help you to overcome issues. Friendships should be a mutual relationship – but that isn’t always the case. Sometimes, like a romantic relationship, you need to break up with a toxic friend.

Here are ways to break up with a toxic friend.

ADDRESS THE ISSUE

Take a moment to address the issue with your relationship and confront this friend. Recall all the times they have hurt you or failed to listen and give them the facts. If they try to manipulate you and don’t apologise, then you need to let them know that friends don’t treat each other like that. 

TALK IN A PUBLIC PLACE

This helps to cut down the possibility of a major scene but it also helps to end the relationship on your terms. If you run into a problem, then just get up and leave. Don’t do it at your house or your friends’ house, as it could be awkward to get them to leave. 

UNFRIEND/UNFOLLOW THEM ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Get them out of your digital life as well as your physical one. Make sure that you’ve unfriended and unfollowed them on social media so you don’t have to see what they’re doing. Plus this means that you’re less likely to engage in a petty online battle and have a clean break-up. If they begin to persist and abuse you, then simply block and report them.

SLOWLY PULL AWAY

If you fully start ignoring them, this could cause unnecessary conflict. Instead, gradually distance yourself from them and slowly phase them out by responding but being disinterested. If you aren’t getting the genuine and sincere love from your friend, then it’s time to let the friendship run its course.

MAKE IT ABOUT YOURSELF

Instead of feeling guilty of breaking up with your friend and potentially hurting them, think about yourself. Make you the priority and see your value instead of letting them walk all over you. This is the best move for your mental health if they refuse to help you or make you feel bad about yourself. Friendship works both ways and sometimes people don’t see that. Don’t be someone’s therapist if you aren’t getting paid. 

Words by Charlie Vogelsang

As always, check out the latest episode of the podcast at Anchor, Spotify, Google Podcast and Apple.

Make sure you follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook!