Is it a toxic friendship? 5 warning signs not to be fooled

Qwhen a friendship ceases to be in its essence, the best thing is to stay away from certain people. Still, can you tell when you're becoming toxic and something of a gold digger? Psychologists give a hand and reveal the warning signs.

Healthy friendships can improve (and much) your life. When there's some kind of tension, nothing good can be guessed. The problem is that I can't figure out when this kind of relationship is toxic and dangerous.

Toxic friendship?

“A toxic friend is more than just someone you occasionally disagree with. It is usually someone who brings elements of dysfunction and harmful behavior to the relationship or group” says psychotherapist Kaytee Gillis in an article for Psychology Today.

On the other hand, psychotherapist Erin Leonard made known some of the warning signs that should concern him. They come out when a friendship can become toxic and destructive.

See the points to consider:

1- Jealousy arises when its successes are commented sarcastically; 

2- Do you feel excluded from the group or do you think people are talking behind your back?;

3- The relationship is unstable, sometimes full of proximity, sometimes cold and distant;

4- A friend suddenly appears unexpectedly. It often causes anxiety; 

5- The contact is one-sided and their affairs do not arouse the interest of the other party.

How to End a Toxic Relationship

There are several problems that may be the source of a toxic relationship. “Toxic friendships can lead to depression, anxiety and doubts about value itself,” he continues.

Cut the connection to a friend like that can be tricky. “If your friend is a narcissist, he may refuse to admit that the problem is him and may even try to regain his trust. Other drug friends can try to turn other people against you” continues.

Thus, it is important to impose limits in order to care for your mental health. You may eventually gradually distance yourself. It reveals that it should not be seen as the end of a loving relationship, but as a “show of concern for our own well-being and an opportunity for growth”