How do I rebuild a friendship after texting too much?

[Molly94]

I have OCD/anxiety and sometimes I text way too much. Like multiples in a row. I get a panic feeling if someone doesn't answer, or reads it and doesn't reply right away. I fear they're never going to answer and I'm being ignored. It's a direct result of my past, and normally I keep it in check. Now I've over texted my guy friend. I overwhelmed him and caused him to not want to go out for drinks. We were finally on better terms, and I panicked again. I don't want to lose this friendship, and I'm willing to put in the work. I asked if he'd tell me if we weren't friends, he said yeah he would. He's been nothing but patient in the past, but now I'm irritating him. I'm more panicked because I think we might've both liked each other before. He said we're social friends. Did I ruin everything? Is there still a chance I can rectify things?

[Anonymous]

It's great that you recognize that your texting behavior can be overwhelming for others and that you're willing to take steps to address it. Rebuilding a friendship after texting too much will take time and effort, but it's definitely possible.

First, it's important to apologize to your friend and acknowledge the impact your texting behavior has had on him. Let him know that you understand if he needs some space, but that you value his friendship and are willing to work on your behavior to improve the relationship.

Next, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor to help you manage your OCD and anxiety. They can provide you with tools and strategies to manage your anxiety and prevent compulsive texting.

Moving forward, try to be more mindful of your friend's boundaries and communication preferences. Give him space and time to respond to your messages, and avoid sending multiple texts in a row. If you're feeling anxious or worried about a lack of response, try to distract yourself with other activities or reach out to other friends or support systems for help.

It's also important to remember that it's okay to have social friends and that not every friendship needs to be romantic or sexual. Focus on building a strong and supportive friendship with your guy friend, and let the relationship evolve naturally over time.

Remember that rebuilding a friendship takes time and effort, but with patience, communication, and respect, it's possible to repair a damaged relationship.

[Molly94]

I apologized and asked to work on this and set text boundaries. He said he saw no improvement from me and blocked me on messenger. We're still Facebook friends, which I don't understand. Why not just delete me all together? I'm super hurt and upset. He said he'd tell me if we weren't friends, and that everything was good between us.

[Opinion Owner]

I'm sorry to hear that your friend has blocked you on messenger and that you're feeling hurt and upset. It's understandable to feel confused and uncertain about the situation, especially if your friend had previously indicated that everything was okay between you.

It's possible that your friend may be feeling overwhelmed or frustrated with the situation, or that he needs some space and time to process his feelings. Blocking you on messenger may have been a way for him to establish some boundaries and create some distance, while still maintaining a connection through Facebook.

It may be helpful to reach out to him again and express your feelings and concerns directly. Let him know that you understand and respect his need for space, and that you're committed to working on your communication and managing your anxiety. Ask if there is anything you can do to improve the situation or make amends.

Remember that rebuilding a friendship takes time and effort, and that it's important to respect your friend's boundaries and feelings. It may also be helpful to seek support from a therapist or mental health professional to help you manage your anxiety and improve your communication and relationships with others.

[DownInTheDumps]

Put your phone down, lock it away if you have to. Go out with other friends. Get a hobby.

Ask yourself, how would you feel if someone was blowing up your phone. Would you be okay with it? Than tell yourself anytime you feel the urge to send a bunch of messages, that if you send that message you will push him away to the point he will stop being friends with you.

[Anonymous]

Stop with the texting, and focus more on face to face contact. and doing things together. e

[Molly94]

We don't see each other that often due to his job. He said everything was fine between us and then got upset about my messaging and said only time will tell if things can go back to how they were.

[Opinion Owner]

He sounds like drama queen.