Sometimes I wonder if I’m a terrible friend. It’s not because I’m unkind or self-centered; rather, when life gets tough, I tend to retreat. I go underground, hide away, and wait for the storm to blow over. I may stop responding to texts, phone calls, or any attempts at communication.
This retreating is my coping strategy. When the chaos of life gets overwhelming, it becomes hard for me to hear the supportive voices around me. I need a quiet space within myself to recharge while I navigate through the challenges surrounding me.
Unfortunately, this tendency to withdraw has strained more than a few friendships over the years. Friends reach out multiple times, but I often leave them hanging. They might think I’m intentionally ignoring them, but the truth is, I’m just trying to protect my own emotional well-being. If they lose patience and move on before I can explain my absence, I feel a deep sadness for the connections that fade away during my emotional hibernation.
We all cope with life’s ups and downs in different ways. Some indulge in shopping sprees or binge-watch their favorite shows; others may reach out to everyone they know, sharing their burdens. People like me, however, often turn into recluses, seeking solitude during difficult times.
If you have a friend who tends to disappear when things get rough, please don’t give up on them. If they stop answering your calls or seem to vanish from social media, don’t assume they’re avoiding you. They may need space, but it’s not a reflection of your friendship. They still value your connection, and they may need your support more than ever when they finally resurface.
Life can be incredibly challenging. Mental health issues like anxiety and depression can distort a person’s sense of self-worth, making it hard to reach out. Relationship troubles, family issues, and life changes can also leave someone feeling overwhelmed. When I hit a rough patch, I often roll up my windows and focus on getting through each day.
Remember, it’s not about you; it’s about them. They need your ongoing friendship as a reminder that they’re not alone, even if they can’t express it. They want to know that, when the clouds part, there’s someone waiting for them with open arms. They need to feel that unconditional love exists, even when they feel unworthy.
True friends are there for each other, whether they communicate daily or haven’t spoken in weeks. If you care about someone, stand by them, even if they seem distant. They appreciate your outreach and will benefit from knowing you’re there when they’re ready to reconnect.
For those of us who pull back during tough times, the knowledge that friends are standing by gives us the strength to weather the storm. We are grateful for your patience and understanding as we navigate our challenges.
If you’re interested in learning more about coping strategies and friendships, check out this insightful blog post here.
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In summary, if you find yourself or someone you care about retreating during tough times, remember that it’s not a sign of a lack of affection or friendship. Everyone has their own way of coping, and sometimes, a little patience and understanding can go a long way.
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