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Asking for a Friend
My Friend Always Gets Free Stuff by Complaining to Managers—and It Gives Me the ‘Ick’
I feel bad for the servers…and even worse about our relationship.
By Miriam Kirmayer, PhD

Life
The ‘Contrarian Friend’ Is Real—and They’re Driving Everyone Crazy
When disagreeing with you becomes someone’s entire personality.
By Jenna Ryu

Life
5 Subtle Signs It’s Time to Break Up With a Friend, According to Experts
Here’s how to know when a “bestie” feels more like a burden than a blessing.
By Jenna Ryu

Asking for a Friend
My Best Friend Keeps Ditching Me for Guys. Should I Call Her Out?
When she’s single, I’m her person. When she’s not? It’s like I don’t exist.
By Miriam Kirmayer, PhD

Asking for a Friend
My Friend Cut Me Off. How Can I Get Them to Forgive Me?
I ruined a great friendship over jealousy…and I’ve regretted it ever since.
By Miriam Kirmayer, PhD

Life
5 Signs You’re in a Codependent Friendship, According to Experts
Because not all “closeness” is healthy.
By Jenna Ryu

Travel
How to Survive a Friends’ Trip—and Actually Stay Friends
So you don’t suffer the same fate as that one “White Lotus” trio.
By Jenna Ryu

Life
3 Things to Do If a Friend Is Always Late and You Just Can’t Take It Anymore
Blowing up at them won’t help either of you.
By Julia Ries Wexler

Life
‘Friendship First’ Is Our September SELF Well-Read Book Club Pick
Author Gyan Yankovich writes that the bonds between besties deserve more credit.
By Grace McCarty

Clan fiction
The Core ‘Friend Group’ Is a Myth—and It’s Making Us Feel Bad About Ourselves
A tight crew that does everything together isn’t that common, and it’s unrealistic for many of us.
By Gyan Yankovich

Redeeming qualities
Here’s How to Truly Earn Someone’s Forgiveness After You’ve Hurt Them
A heartfelt apology is a great start, but taking these steps can show you’re committed to making things right.
By Jenna Ryu

Life
We Asked 9 People What Finally Helped Them Get Over a Friend Breakup
“I leaned into making it a whole thing—wallowing, watching movies about BFFs to hurt my own feelings, that kind of stuff.”
By Anna Borges

Life
3 Things to Do When You Love Your Friend But Kinda Hate Their Partner
You might need a little mantra to get you through the most annoying moments.
By Anna Borges

Life
How to Deal With Being the Only Single Person in Your Friend Group
If third-wheeling is bumming you out, read this.
By Jenna Ryu

Life
5 Signs That You’re in a One-Sided Friendship
Watch out for someone who’s “too busy” for you but somehow fits in lots of hangs with everyone else.
By Jenna Ryu

The gifts of gab
Why Yapping With Your Friends Is So Good For Your Mental Health
You don’t have to go deep to feel connected.
By Anna Borges

Life
How to Deal With a Friend Who Complains Constantly
You’re not a bad person for wanting a break from the negativity.
By Jenna Ryu

Life
What to Do If Your People-Focused Job Completely Drains Your Social Battery
These little strategies can help you preserve some energy for your loved ones—and yourself.
By Jessica A. Gold, MD

Life
How to Actually Maintain Close Friendships in Your 30s
Because jobs, kids, and living in different cities can make it really, really hard.
By Julia Ries

Frenemy lines
3 Things to Say When a ‘Friend’ Puts You Down
If their snide little comments make you feel shitty, it’s okay to stand up for yourself.
By Jenna Ryu