[Celyn]

Hey there!

I don’t think you’re the cause of the toxic friendships. I know a lot of the time that depression and anxiety can make things difficult in maintaining friendships, but equally, friends who don’t understand or who are ignorant to mental health issues can also make things difficult. It isn’t your fault though.

It can be good to have friends who have different views to you, but that does not make it right for them to force their beliefs onto you. And users never make good friends. It’s good that you have realised that you aren’t happy in the friendships though- you deserve much better!

I can relate to not being able to end friendships, staying in them and feeling guilty. But you have to put yourself first. If the friendships are making you unhappy, then it’s best to leave them. You deserve that much, at least. Perhaps you could start distancing yourself from them, and ‘leave quietly’ and if they ask for favours, let them know how inconvenient it might be for you. It may be hard, but it will be worthwhile. As for making new friends, you could join clubs or take up hobbies and meet people that way. Volunteering can also be a good way of making friends.

Take care