Friend groups are supposed to feel like your escape from reality, but sometimes they can drain you instead of lifting you up. If you’ve ever walked away from a hangout feeling like you were out of place, it might be time to take a closer look at the kind of friendships you have. Here are 5 HIYA signs you're in a toxic group:
Constant Drama: If there is constant fighting, gossip, or secrets being shared behind each other’s backs. It’s exhausting and keeps you on edge, then the “friendship” is built on hypocrisy.
Feeling Left Out: When they exclude you from plans, ignore your messages, or make inside jokes without you. That’s not friendship, that’s manipulation.
You Can’t Be Yourself: If you have to change how you talk, dress, or act just to fit in, that’s a major red flag. Real friends don’t make you feel small or push your interests as insignificant.
Put-Downs Disguised as “Jokes”: When they like to tease you about your looks, opinions, or interests. And once you speak up about it, they claim you’re “too sensitive.”
They Don’t Respect Boundaries: Whether it’s pushing you to do stuff you’re not comfortable with, or not taking no for an answer, that’s toxic and unhealthy. This will eventually lead to major consequences.
So… how do you break free?
Start by spending more time with people who make you feel good, seen, and heard.
Whether that be a classmate, teammates, or even family, make sure you set boundaries and slowly distance yourself from a toxic group.
A big, dramatic exit isn’t necessary. Protecting your peace is reason enough to walk away from negativity.
It’s okay to outgrow people.
As we grow and change, we learn that not every friend grows with us, and that’s completely okay. Letting go of unhealthy friendships opens up space for new, healthy ones.
Never settle for people who don’t see your worth. Everyone deserves a group that respects them, supports them, and lets them be their true self.
Eventually, your future self will thank you for taking the initiative and choosing better.
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Story written by Sahory Martinez