6 Friendship Red Flags

When it comes to friendships, it’s important to be able to identify the warning signs that a friendship may not be as healthy as it should be. Here are six red flags to watch out for in a friendship:

1. One-sidedness

If you find yourself always being the one to initiate contact, make plans, and put in the effort, while your friend seems to take a backseat, it may be time to reconsider the friendship. A healthy friendship should be balanced and mutual, with both parties putting in equal amounts of effort.

2. Lack of communication

When your friend is never really present when you’re talking to them, or if they frequently cancel plans at the last minute, it may be a sign that they’re not really interested in maintaining the friendship. Healthy friendships require communication and effort from both sides.

3. Secrets and lies

Secrets in a relationship mark the beginning of the end. If your friend is constantly keeping secrets from you or telling you half-truths, it’s a red flag that they don’t trust you. A healthy friendship is built on trust and honesty.

4. Judgmental attitude

When your friend is always quick to judge you or put you down, it’s a sign that they’re not really your friend. A true friend will accept you for who you are and support you through thick and thin.

5. Negativity

If your friend is always negative and brings you down, it’s time to reevaluate the friendship. A healthy friendship should lift you up and make you feel good about yourself.

6. Unhealthy jealousy

If your friend is always jealous of your success or accomplishments, it’s a sign that they’re not really happy for you. A true friend will be supportive of your successes and proud of your accomplishments.

If you notice any of these red flags in a friendship, it’s important to address the issue with your friend. If the friendship is not salvageable, it’s okay to let it go. Your wellbeing is more important than maintaining an unhealthy friendship.