Having the contact numbers of people like your friend’s doctor could be important if you need to help your friend through a crisis, or if your friend is saying or doing things that worry you about his or her safety.
There might be times when your friend says that he or she isn’t able to hang out because of their illness. It’s important that you respect this and don’t put extra pressure on your friend.
Whatever the cause of issues between your friend and your partner may be, when the dynamics of a close friendship change, it can be hard on everyone involved. If your friendship is strong and you’re willing to communicate and address the issue, then your friend and you will find a way to work things out.
If your best friend expresses concern about your boyfriend/girlfriend, investigate. Take a step back to examine if you’re doing things you wouldn’t normally do which could harm you, and to see if your partner is being honest with you. Your friend may be wrong; try to give them the benefit of the doubt.
If your best friend doesn’t like your boyfriend/girlfriend, approach them separately at a calm time when you can give them your full attention. They may feel hurt that you’ve been spending less time together, or protective towards you. Work together to find a balance.
Loneliness can make you feel: unloved and unwanted, socially inadequate, convinced that there is something wrong with you, self-conscious and ill-at-ease with others, and angry and critical of others. Remember you can take action against loneliness, and help others who are feeling the same.
You can feel lonely when: you are alone and have no choice about the matter; you do not feel part of a group or event; there is no-one you feel you can share your feelings and experiences with; you feel disconnected and alienated from your surroundings.
Moving out and leaving home means a lot of changes: in lifestyle, work patterns and degree of independence. Having a support network of friends, family, colleagues (at work) or Student Services (at University) can help you deal with the changes without becoming overwhelmed or feeling isolated.
Some people are more at ease in groups, and others in one-to-one situations. Think about what you prefer. Find others with similar outlooks and interests. Remember that, despite what it might seem, not everyone is interested in sport or going to pubs.
Long-lasting and fulfilling friendships take time to grow. Try not to be too critical of yourself and your efforts, and be patient. Build that friendship which you want for yourself by being a good friend to others.