Clinical psychologist Dr Julie made the admission on the Great Company podcast with Jamie Laing
Friendships are vital to our well-being, providing support, laughter, and a sense of belonging. But like all relationships, friendships can evolve, and sometimes, sadly, they reach a point where it’s healthier to move on. It’s not always a dramatic falling out; sometimes, the signs are more subtle. Clinical psychologist Dr. Julie recently shed light on these nuances during an appearance on the “Great Company” podcast with Jamie Laing, offering valuable insights into when it might be time to re-evaluate a friendship.
Feeling Drained After Every Interaction?
One of the key indicators Dr. Julie points out is feeling consistently emotionally depleted after spending time with a friend. Do you find yourself mentally prepping for conversations, bracing yourself for negativity, or feeling exhausted after even short interactions? While all friendships have their ups and downs, a persistent feeling of being drained, rather than energized, is a red flag. This might suggest a lack of reciprocity, where the relationship feels more like a burden than a source of support.
Dr Julie has an audience of seven million across her social media pages (YouTube/Great Company)
The Conversation Feels One-Sided
Pay attention to the dynamic of your conversations. Is it always about them? Do they actively listen and show genuine interest in your life, or do they tend to steer the conversation back to themselves? A healthy friendship involves a balanced exchange of thoughts, feelings, and experiences. If you consistently feel like you’re the one doing all the listening, it’s worth considering whether the friendship is truly reciprocal.
Your Values Are Drifting Apart
As we grow and evolve, our values and goals can change. Sometimes, this means that we no longer align with the values of our friends. This doesn’t necessarily make either of you “wrong,” but it can create friction and make it difficult to connect on a deeper level. Do you find yourself increasingly disagreeing on fundamental issues? Are their actions constantly at odds with your own moral compass? These differences can erode the foundation of a friendship over time.
You’re Growing Apart, and That’s Okay
Ultimately, acknowledging that a friendship has run its course isn’t about assigning blame; it’s about recognizing that sometimes, people simply grow apart. It’s about prioritizing your own well-being and surrounding yourself with individuals who uplift and support you. Dr. Julie’s insights provide a valuable framework for evaluating your friendships and making conscious decisions about who you choose to keep in your life. Remember, it’s okay to let go of friendships that no longer serve you, allowing space for new, more fulfilling connections to blossom.Edit
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