I’m really considering distancing myself from my friend.
So, I (14M) have this friend (14M) and while we get along okay, we have absolutely no shared interests. We mostly hang out because we’re in the same group. He’s into anime and all that, but it’s just not my thing. Recently, though, he’s been getting extremely emotional—like if I say, “Hey Joe, how are you?” he just breaks down crying. I’ve tried talking to him to see if there’s something going on in his life, but he insists everything is fine.
I know this might sound a bit odd, but initially, I was just concerned for his well-being and ended up looking through the window of his house. I saw him just sitting there eating chips while calling his mom names. He seems to be very distant with me specifically, and he often insults me, saying things like I’m “weak” and “skinny.” I have more examples of his behavior that I’ll share in the comments, but right now, I could really use some advice on what to do.
To give you an idea of what I deal with: he’ll say something like, “Wow Terry (not my real name), you’re so skinny and weak,” and when I retaliate by teasing him about being overweight, I end up being the bad guy.
It sounds like you’re dealing with a tough situation. It’s clear that your friend is struggling emotionally and possibly has some issues at home, which can make things difficult for both of you. Here are a few thoughts:
Boundaries: It’s okay to set boundaries with friends. If his behavior is making you uncomfortable or unhappy, it’s perfectly fine to distance yourself a bit. You don’t have to stay friends with someone just because you’re in the same group.
Communication: It seems like you’ve tried talking to him about how he feels. If he’s not receptive or open to discussing what he’s going through, there’s not much you can do. It’s important to take care of your own well-being too.
Focus on Yourself: Spend time with other friends or engage in activities you enjoy. You don’t have to be close friends with someone if you don’t share interests or if their behavior is affecting you negatively.
Letting Go: If you decide you want to end the friendship, consider doing it gradually. You can start by being less available and not engaging as much. It’s not necessary to have a big confrontation if you don’t want to.
Support System: Make sure you have friends who uplift you. Surround yourself with positive influences who encourage your interests and well-being.
Remember, it’s important to prioritize your mental health. It can be tough, but sometimes stepping back from a friendship is what’s best for both parties.