"Frenemies"

Surely you know what I mean.

That "friend" who always makes sure YOU know that they have it just a little better than you. Whether at home, at work, or on the proverbial playing field. They mock your aspirations, they put you down. After some time, these "friends" make you question your inherent value as a person.

Toxic relationships take many forms, of course. Family, coworkers, and neighbors can all have toxic effects on our well-being. But when it comes to toxic friendships, we are a bit more vulnerable. We might have been dealt a losing hand when it comes to family; we seldom have much control over our coworkers, and neighbors come and go. But we choose our friends. We invest time in building relationships. We rely on friends to support us through difficult times. But what about those people who thrive on your misfortune?

These people will dismiss your successes in order to spotlight their own. They will focus on your shortcomings & insecurities, rather than steering conversation in a positive direction. With "friends" like these, who needs enemies?!

Twitter user @debihope has now famously coined the phrase:

“Before you diagnose yourself with depression or low self-esteem, first make sure you are not, in fact, just surrounded by assholes.” Notorious d.e.b. (http://quoteinvestigator.com/2014/10/25/diagnose/)

Make sure, indeed!