Let’s be real—fall’s cozy vibes and cute group pics sound great until you realize not everyone in your circle is as solid as they seem. High school friendships can be messy, and navigating all that drama and shifting alliances can feel like a full-time job. But you don’t have to settle for fake friends and energy vampires. This season, let’s cut the BS and figure out how to keep your squad tight, real, and drama-free with some friendship tips for teens.
- Drop the Fake Ones
Not everyone’s your ride-or-die, even if they act like it. Some people will smile to your face and talk sh*t behind your back. It’s brutal, but it’s true. If your so-called friends bring more drama than good vibes, it’s time to bounce. You deserve people who keep it 100, not ones who make you second-guess yourself.
Move: Pay attention to how you feel after hanging out. If you feel drained, maybe it’s time to focus on people who actually make you feel good. It’s all about surrounding yourself with positive friendships and ditching those toxic ones that drag you down
- Stop Overthinking Every Text
Ever stare at your phone, overanalyzing a text for hours? Yeah, we’ve all been there. But real talk: if you’re constantly stressing about what someone’s saying or not saying, they’re not worth the mental energy. Friends shouldn’t make you feel like you’re walking on eggshells.
Move: Next time you’re tempted to read between the lines, take a deep breath and chill. Real friends will hit you up when they can and won’t make you feel like you’re chasing them. If someone’s making you feel otherwise, let them go.
- Make the Time Count
Navigating social circles can suck and friendships need work—yeah, it’s not all fun and games. If you want a real connection, you gotta show up. It’s easy to flake or ghost when you’re not feeling it, but the real ones? They make time, even when it’s inconvenient. Don’t take your friends for granted.
Move: Do something simple, like planning a chill hangout or surprising your friend with their favorite snack. It’s not about doing the most, it’s about showing you care.
- Set Boundaries Like a Boss
Ever feel like you’re giving way more than you’re getting? That’s a sign you need to set boundaries. It’s not selfish; it’s survival. If a friend is all about their problems and never checks in on you, that’s a major friendship red flag.
Move: Next time a friend tries to dump their issues on you without even asking how you’re doing, call it out. Say, “I’m here for you, but right now, I need some space to take care of myself.” If they’re real, they’ll get it.
- Keep It Real—No Masks Allowed
It’s tempting to be someone you’re not to fit in, but let’s be honest, that crap gets exhausting. Real friendships are built when you show up as your true, unfiltered self. If your friends can’t handle that, they’re not your people.
Move: Next time you’re with your crew, drop the act. Be weird, be loud, be whatever feels real to you. The ones who stick around are the ones worth your time.
- Hype Up the Friends Who Matter
When you find your people, hold on to them. These are the ones who have your back when things get rough, who hype you up when you’re feeling low, and who keep it real, even when it’s hard to hear. Prioritize them and cut out the noise from the people who don’t add anything to your life. This will make navigating friend drama way easier – trust!
Move: Text your bestie right now and remind them why they’re the best. Simple as that. Positive energy only.
Wrap Up
Fall is the time to tighten up your circle and make sure you’ve got the real ones by your side. Life’s too short to waste on friends who only bring you down. This season, focus on deepening the bonds that actually matter, and don’t be afraid to let the rest go. Building solid friendships takes time, but don’t forget: you deserve friends who bring warmth, not those cold, toxic vibes.
And that’s how you #loveyourselfharder
If you’re struggling with friendship drama, feeling alone, or need other teen friendship advice check out these mental health resources: The Jed Foundation and TeensHealth.
