manicpixiespaceprincess:

can we please stop acting like abuse only happens in romantic or familial relationships? platonic relationships can be incredibly toxic and unhealthy, and just because you’re strictly friends with someone doesn’t mean they can’t abuse you.

• if your friend hits you, for whatever reason, they are abusive.
• if your friend makes you do whatever they want and makes you feel guilty for trying to give your opinion, they are abusive.
• if your friend makes you feel bad for trying to talk to them about your feelings, they are abusive.
• if your friend tells you that you’re stupid, ugly, worthless, ect., they are abusive.
• if your friend gets mad at you for hanging out with people they don’t like, they are abusive.
• if your friend tries to make you feel guilty for cancelling plans when you had a legitimate reason (like health issues, homework, family drama, ect.), they are abusive.
• if your friend pressures you to do things that you aren’t comfortable with, they are abusive.
• if your friend purposely makes you feel bad about yourself or makes you feel guilty for the things you like and do, they are abusive.
• if your friend touches you in a sexual or sensual way without your consent, they are abusive. even if they do it “jokingly.” even if you’re both straight members of the same gender. and especially if they keep doing it after you make it clear that you’re uncomfortable. (this is a big one)

keep an eye out for red flags in your platonic relationships just like you would in a romantic relationship. if you have a friend who does any of the things on this list, please talk to them about it. let them know that their behavior is hurting you and is not okay. and if they don’t get better, cut them out of your life. letting go of toxic people is an act of self care, and you are not selfish or cruel for cutting ties with someone who hurts you.