True friendship brings joy, support, and comfort. It can improve mental health and even extend life: a study conducted in Australia over 10 years showed that people with strong friendship circles have a 22% higher chance of living longer.
Psychologist Sharon Livingston and experts from Your Tango explain how to distinguish a true friend from a toxic one and what they would never allow:
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Does not make you feel competitive for friendship
A true friend does not put you in a situation of rivalry with others and does not compare you to anyone else.
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Allocates equal time for communication
They listen to your joys and concerns just as attentively as you do to theirs.
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Does not criticize self-importantly
Honesty is important, but it should come with kindness. Harsh criticism says more about the person delivering it than about you.
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Does not demand constant attention without giving back
A true friend maintains balance: they initiate communication themselves and appreciate your efforts.
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Does not force you to change for their whims
They acknowledge their mistakes and do not impose mandatory transformation on you for their own interests.
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Does not keep you on edge
With them, it is safe to be yourself; you don’t have to watch every word.
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Does not create emotional roller coasters
True friendship is stable: joy and support prevail over unpredictability and conflicts.
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Does not cause chronic stress
Interacting with a friend brings you support, not anxiety, pain, or fatigue.
Healthy relationships with friends strengthen the mind and body, while toxic ones cause harm. Understanding these signs helps to adjust your social circle in time.
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