Friendships are meant to be mutually fulfilling relationships built on trust, support, and companionship. However, sometimes friendships can become one-sided, where one person consistently invests more time, effort, and care than the other. Here are some signs to help you recognize if a friendship is one-sided:
Unequal Effort:
One of the most telling signs of a one-sided friendship is when one person consistently puts in more effort to maintain the relationship. This may involve initiating plans, reaching out to check in, or offering support during difficult times, while the other person seems indifferent or only engages when it’s convenient for them.
Lack of Reciprocity:
In healthy friendships, there is a natural give-and-take where both parties support and care for each other. However, in a one-sided friendship, you may find that your efforts to support and be there for your friend are not reciprocated. They may not show interest in your life, dismiss your concerns, or fail to offer support when you need it.
Feeling Drained or Unappreciated:
One-sided friendships can leave you feeling emotionally exhausted and unappreciated. If you often find yourself giving more than you receive and feeling drained after interactions with your friend, it may be a sign that the friendship is imbalanced.
Canceling Plans or Prioritizing Others:
Pay attention to how your friend responds to your invitations and requests to spend time together. If they frequently cancel plans last minute, prioritize other people or activities over spending time with you, or only reach out when they need something from you, it may indicate that they are not fully invested in the friendship.
Lack of Communication:
Effective communication is essential in any healthy relationship. If you find that your friend is unwilling or unable to communicate openly and honestly with you, avoids discussing important topics, or brushes off your attempts to address concerns, it can be a red flag indicating a one-sided dynamic.
Feeling Undervalued:
Your feelings and needs should be valued and respected in any friendship. If you consistently feel overlooked, ignored, or belittled by your friend, it may be a sign that they do not appreciate your worth or prioritize your relationship.
It’s important to remember that friendships, like any relationship, require effort and commitment from both parties to thrive. If you recognize any of these signs in your friendship, it may be worth having an open and honest conversation with your friend about your concerns. Ultimately, healthy friendships are built on mutual respect, understanding, and reciprocity, and it’s essential to prioritize relationships that uplift and support you.
Written by GUADS intern Lexi, with contributions from healthline.com
Tips for Staying Hydrated