People who end friendships to protect their mental health usually adopt these 7 habits

There’s a vast difference between cutting ties to be mean and doing it for mental peace.

The distinction is all about self-care. Ending friendships isn’t about being cruel, but more about preserving your own mental health when the relationship turns toxic.

For some, it might seem drastic, but those who’ve taken this step understand the importance of their mental well-being. And they often adopt certain habits that help them build a healthier, happier life.

In this article, we’re going to talk about the seven habits people usually adopt when they choose their mental health over toxic friendships. Prepare to discover some truly empowering behaviors.

1) Prioritizing self-care

A significant aspect of protecting your mental health is the practice of self-care.

Those who choose their mental well-being over toxic friendships understand this concept better than most. They know that self-care isn’t selfish, but necessary for maintaining mental peace.

Self-care can involve various practices, from taking time for personal hobbies to simply ensuring a good night’s sleep. It can mean setting boundaries or taking time for meditation and deep-breathing exercises.

In the face of toxic relationships, these individuals often take a step back, assess their feelings, and then take deliberate actions to care for themselves. They comprehend that their mental health should not be compromised for the sake of maintaining a relationship.

Remember, it’s not about being selfish; it’s about understanding that you can’t fill others from an empty cup. A simple but powerful realization that makes all the difference.

2) Recognizing the signs

From personal experience, I can tell you that understanding the signs of a toxic friendship is crucial.

It took me a while to figure this out in one of my own friendships. We had been friends since high school, but over the years, I started to feel drained whenever we spent time together. Every conversation seemed to revolve around their issues, and they often dismissed my feelings or problems.

Eventually, I realized these were signs of a one-sided, toxic friendship. Instead of mutual support and respect, there was constant negativity and emotional exhaustion on my end.

Recognizing these signs made me realize that continuing this friendship was detrimental to my mental health. It was a difficult decision, but one that had to be made for the sake of my well-being.

So, those who choose mental health over toxic friendships tend to be good at recognizing these signs. They understand when a relationship is no longer serving them positively and make the hard choice to move on.

3) Building mental resilience

When dealing with toxic friendships, mental resilience can be a powerful tool. It’s about the ability to bounce back from negative experiences and maintain your mental health despite adversity.

In my book, The Art of Resilience: A Practical Guide to Developing Mental Toughness, I delve deeper into how to build this essential skill. It’s about learning to manage stress, regulate emotions, and maintain a positive outlook.

People who end friendships for the sake of their mental health have often developed a high level of mental resilience. They understand that it’s not about avoiding negative experiences, but learning how to cope with them effectively. They’re not afraid of ending relationships that harm them because they trust in their ability to recover and thrive.

Building mental resilience isn’t easy, and it doesn’t happen overnight. But with consistent effort and the right strategies, you can learn to weather life’s storms with grace and poise. And remember, every step you take towards building your mental toughness is a step towards a healthier, happier you.

4) Seeking professional help

There was a time when it felt like the world was crashing down on me. The stress of dealing with a toxic friendship had taken its toll and I was feeling overwhelmed. But instead of trying to cope alone, I sought help from a professional.

Reaching out to a therapist was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. They provided me with the tools and advice I needed to handle my situation effectively.

Just like me, many people who choose their mental health over toxic friendships aren’t afraid to seek professional help. They understand that there’s no shame in reaching out and that a trained professional can provide invaluable guidance on navigating the complexities of relationships and mental health.

So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by your situation, don’t hesitate to seek help. Remember, it’s okay not to be okay and it’s okay to ask for help when you need it.

5) Investing time in solitude

In a world where being constantly connected is the norm, choosing to spend time alone might seem counter-intuitive. Yet, those who prioritize their mental health over toxic friendships often find immense value in solitude.

Spending time alone allows for introspection, self-discovery, and peace. It gives you the chance to process your feelings without external influences. It helps you understand what you truly want and need from your relationships.

Contrary to popular belief, solitude isn’t about loneliness; it’s about self-connection. It’s about giving yourself the space to heal, grow, and thrive.

The next time you find yourself craving some alone time, don’t shy away from it. Embrace it and allow yourself to experience the healing power of solitude.

6) Setting firm boundaries

One of the most common habits of people who prioritize mental health over toxic friendships is setting firm boundaries.

Boundaries are essential in maintaining healthy relationships. They define what is acceptable behavior and what isn’t. They help protect your mental space and prevent others from overstepping their limits.

Setting firm boundaries might mean saying no to constant demands or rejecting negative behavior. It might mean limiting contact or even cutting ties completely in some scenarios.

While it can be challenging to set and maintain these boundaries, especially with long-standing friendships, it’s a necessary step towards protecting your mental health. You have every right to establish what you are and aren’t comfortable with in your relationships.

7) Embracing the journey of self-growth

The decision to end a toxic friendship is not just about preserving mental health; it’s also about embracing a journey toward self-growth.

This journey allows you to discover your strengths, acknowledge your weaknesses, and work on becoming a better version of yourself. It’s about learning to trust your instincts, value your mental peace, and prioritize your well-being in every situation.

So, if you’re on this path, remember that every step, no matter how small, is a step towards a healthier, happier you.

In conclusion: The journey matters

The process of prioritizing mental health over toxic friendships is more than just an act; it’s a journey. It’s about navigating the complex territory of relationships, understanding your own needs, and taking steps toward self-care and mental peace.

This journey often involves making tough decisions and embracing change. But remember, it’s your journey, and every step you take toward caring for your mental health is a step in the right direction.

In my book, The Art of Resilience: A Practical Guide to Developing Mental Toughness, I delve into how building resilience can aid this journey. It provides practical guidance on how to navigate life’s challenges with grace and poise, including ending toxic relationships.

So as you reflect on the habits we’ve discussed today, remember that it’s not just about ending friendships, but about embarking on a journey towards better mental health and self-growth.

In the end, remember that your mental health matters. You matter. And this journey, no matter how tough, is worth it for a healthier, happier you.