How to deal with a friend’s resentment?

[Anonymous]

My friend has been making personal attacks on me about my character twice in one week. I didn’t understand why, so mum suggested that she might be jealous of me, for coming from a rich family and having a good life, besides being unable to work from having depression and anxiety disorder. While she is from a poor family and lives in a bad area of town.

When I think about it, I’ve been offered modelling opportunities that I turned down and every guy she ever liked ended up preferring me. I don’t do anything to deliberately upset her and I never brag and I’m not a snob. I value her friendship but I don’t feel comfortable being attacked when I haven’t done anything wrong and I’m worried that her jealousy might destroy our friendship. As I’ve noticed her getting more vicious and spiteful over the past year. What should I do about this? Should I take some space from her, for a while?

[Nikki1989]

Have an honest and open conversation with your friend to understand the root of their resentment and work on it from there.

[Cutegirl06]

She sounds like she's jealous

[Oliverlogan263]

Oh man, that really sucks she's been getting so nasty with you :/ No one deserves to be treated like that by a supposed bestie!

It does kinda sound like she's super jealous deep down, even if she won't admit it. Her issues are NOT your fault tho, so don't internalize anything she throws at you, kay?

I think you're right that some space is needed here. Jealous friends can seriously damage your mental health over time if you don't set boundaries. A few things you could try:

- Take a break from hanging out one-on-one for a few weeks. Only see her in group settings for now if at all.

- Be busy! Make plans with other gals so she gets the hint you won't tolerate attacks.

- If she starts in on you again, firmly but calmly say "I don't appreciate you putting me down. Let's talk when you can respect me." Then exit.

- Remind her in a caring way how much you value HER, not just benefits she thinks you have. Flip the script on jealousy.

- Suggest she talk to someone like a therapist about why she's feeling so bitter and resentful lately. You want to help her feel better!

Hope some space helps y'all clear your heads. True friends lift each other up - if she can't change, you might need to find some new bffs. You deserve to feel happy and cared for, babe! Stay strong.