Friends are supposed to make life better, not bring you down. We’ve all encountered those “frenemies”—always causing drama, sapping your energy, and spreading toxicity. If any of these 15 types sound familiar, it’s time to hit the eject button and make space for people who actually have your back.
1. The Judgy One
This friend can’t seem to find anything nice to say, but they’ve always got a critique or a negative comment ready. And it’s exhausting. Constructive feedback is one thing, but if they’re constantly tearing you down, they are jealous and judgy and need to look in their backyard. Friends are supposed to support and uplift you, not make you feel like an epic failure.
2. The One-Sided Wonder
They talk about themselves nonstop, and when it’s your turn to share— crickets. It’s always about their problems/job/kid/life. A healthy friendship is a two-way street; show them the door if they can’t make room for you in the conversation or aren’t interested in your life.
3. The Drama Queen
This energy vampire can turn the tiniest issue into a full-blown crisis. They live for drama and always pull you into their whirlwind of chaos. Life’s too short to get dragged down; find friends who bring peace, not problems.
4. The Gossip Monger
If they’re spilling everyone else’s secrets, they’re gossiping about you too. This “friend” loves to dish out the dirt, which says all you need to know about them. Trust is the foundation of any friendship; if they can’t keep their mouth closed, they’re not someone you want in your corner.
5. The Annoying Flake
This one always makes plans and cancels at the last minute—or worse, does not show up. It’s like they’ve never heard of the concept of commitment, let alone respect for others. Remember, your time is valuable. Don’t waste it on the wrong people.
6. The Obvious User
They show up when they need something from you. A favor, a shoulder to cry on, a loan. But they never check in otherwise, and you can guarantee that they’re MIA when you’re in need. Friendships should be mutually supportive; if someone is only on the take, take the scissors and cut them loose.
7. The Jealous Monster
Green-eyed monsters don’t cheer you on; they give you the side-eye when you succeed. They can’t stand when you’re doing well; it triggers their insecurities, so they downplay your achievements. True friends encourage you to pursue your goals and then celebrate your win as if they were theirs.
8. The Master Manipulator
They make you feel guilty or obligated to do things you don’t want to. They twist situations to get their way, and you feel like you’re being played—because you are. Friends don’t resort to manipulation; be around people who respect your choices and can handle no.
9. The Competitive One-Upper
Everything is a competition with this one. If you’ve done something cool, they’ve done it better— they can never let you have your moment. Friendship isn’t a sport or a race to the top. If they’re more interested in one-upping than supporting you, say goodbye to your opponent.
10. The Negative Nancy
They find the dark cloud in every silver lining. No matter how great things are, they will find something to complain about, and their negativity is toxic and can be contagious. A friend who thrives on doom and gloom will bring you down, so let them go to wallow in their misery.
11. The Boundary Overstepper
They’ll show up unannounced, give unsolicited advice, and act like your life is their business. They have no idea what boundaries are so how could they ever respect them? You, however, know that healthy boundaries are essential in every relationship.
12. The Social Friend
They’re there when it’s party time, but when you’re going through a rough patch—ghost. They are insecure and superficial and only show up when something fun happens, or it’s convenient for them. Real friends support you in good times and bad, not when the music’s pumping.
13. The Classic Narcissist
This one’s the main character—you’re just a sidekick in their never-ending story (or nightmare). They control the narrative; their go-to’s are manipulation, gaslighting, and the silent treatment when they don’t get their way. If your friend lacks depth and empathy and has a “my way or the highway” mentality, get out before the damage is done.
14. The Secret Saboteur
They make snarky comments and subtly put you down. They mask their negativity as “honesty” or “just joking,” but you know there’s something sinister behind their words. Friends should build you up, not sabotage your confidence, to compensate for their lack of it.
15. The Energy Vampire
You feel sapped after hanging out with them. They suck the life out of you with their constant need for attention or emotional support. They’re feeding off your energy while robbing you of yours. Protect yourself from vampires; life’s too short.
