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Warnings of Detrimental Friendships: Recognizing Five Indicators of Toxic Companionship As Revealed by Psychology Experts

warning indicators of a harmful friendship and steps for severing ties

Signs of a detrimental friend as per psychology: 5 Timeless Indicators of a Toxic Association That...
Signs of a detrimental friend as per psychology: 5 Timeless Indicators of a Toxic Association That Will Drag You Down

Warnings of Detrimental Friendships: Recognizing Five Indicators of Toxic Companionship As Revealed by Psychology Experts

In today's fast-paced world, striking a balance between work, personal relationships, and self-care can be a challenging task. This is a reality that Nicole Lapin, an author from the internal employee group "GLOW" at Rituals, knows all too well.

Lapin's recent article, published on Rituals Magazine, focuses on the importance of friendships, relationships, and self-care. She sheds light on the significance of recognizing toxic relationships and taking steps to distance oneself from them.

Toxic friends, Lapin explains, are those who drain energy, resources, or cause constant drama. These individuals are one-sided, leaving individuals feeling emotionally exhausted, inadequate, and stressed. They often prioritize their own interests over maintaining healthy relationships, causing a constant stream of drama, and attracting negative energy.

Research suggests that toxic friends often put their own needs first and fail to consider the well-being of others. They deplete mental resources without offering reciprocal support, leading to decreased self-esteem, feelings of anxiety, and emotional fatigue over time.

Moreover, toxic friends who drain resources often exploit generosity, whether it's time or money, and the relationship becomes unequal. This can lead to feelings of resentment and a sense of being taken advantage of.

Lapin emphasizes the importance of protecting your time and being mindful of who you spend it with. By doing so, you strengthen your community and yourself. She encourages readers to be aware of the signs of toxic friendships, such as feeling your judgiest, meanest, or most insecure self around someone, and to take action if necessary.

Cutting off toxic relationships, Lapin notes, is not an act of cruelty, but an act of self-care. Making excuses for someone's behavior or treatment is enabling them and part of the problem.

Lapin's article serves as a reminder that real friends make you shine brightest, while toxic people turn out the lights. By recognizing and distancing yourself from toxic relationships, you can pave the way for happiness and growth.

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