A man feels like his friend is toxic.

Is Your Friend Toxic? Take This Quiz

1 min.

Toxic friendships can negatively affect your mental health. Take this quiz to see if you might be dealing with a toxic friend — and what to do about it.

By: Charlie Health Editorial Team

Clinically Reviewed By: Meghan Jensen

October 9, 2024

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Disclaimer: This test is not a diagnostic tool or substitute for professional mental health advice. It is not meant to imply the prevalence of any mental or physical health issue(s). 

What do the results of this toxic friendship quiz mean?

The results of this quiz are not a formal diagnosis but a tool to help you reflect on your emotional well-being in this friendship. They can provide insight into whether you might be experiencing toxic dynamics that affect your mental health. Recognizing these signs can be the first step in understanding their emotional impact on you.

If your score suggests significant toxicity, exploring these concerns further is essential. While the quiz offers an initial perspective, seeking support from a mental health professional is crucial for developing strategies to address these issues effectively. This quiz should be used alongside other resources, like therapy, to ensure your emotional health.

What is a normal score on this test?

There isn’t a universally “normal” score for this quiz, as experiences of friendship dynamics vary widely among people. A lower score generally indicates a lower likelihood of toxic dynamics in your friendship, suggesting healthier communication and mutual support. Regardless of your score, reflecting on the results and how they relate to your emotional well-being is valuable. If you have concerns or notice signs of toxicity, seeking guidance from a mental health professional can be beneficial.

What is a low score on this test?

A low score on this quiz suggests that you likely do not experience significant toxic elements in your friendship and may have a supportive connection with your friend. This indicates that your interactions are likely characterized by good communication, emotional safety, and mutual support. However, remain mindful of any changes in your emotional landscape, as friendship dynamics can shift over time.

What is a high score on this test?

A high score on this quiz indicates significant feelings of toxicity in your friendship that could negatively impact your mental health. This suggests frequent experiences of isolation, emotional distress, or dissatisfaction in your interactions. If you find yourself in this range, it’s essential to take these feelings seriously and consider seeking support from a mental health professional to help you navigate these challenges and foster healthier relationships.

Who should take this toxic friendship quiz?

This quiz is for anyone who suspects they may be experiencing toxic dynamics in a friendship. It’s designed to help you self-assess your emotional well-being within your friendships and identify potential patterns of toxicity affecting your mental health. While not a diagnostic tool, the quiz can provide insight into your social connections and the impact of negative interactions on your emotional state.

If your responses raise concerns about your friendship, this can be a helpful first step toward seeking support from a mental health professional. They can assist you in processing these emotions and developing strategies to enhance your connections and prioritize your overall well-being. Remember that this quiz is just a starting point and should not replace professional mental health support.

How can taking this toxic friendship quiz be helpful?

Taking this friendship quiz can be a valuable tool for self-reflection. It helps identify patterns of toxicity and disconnection that you may not have fully acknowledged. By raising awareness of your emotional state and social dynamics, the quiz empowers you to make informed decisions about your well-being.

This quiz can clarify your feelings and friendship dynamics, enabling you to recognize if you’re experiencing significant toxicity and prompting you to seek further support or take steps toward improvement. Since friendship dynamics can vary, consider retaking the quiz periodically or focusing on specific relationships to gain a clearer perspective on your emotional health.

What is a toxic friendship?

A toxic friendship is characterized by negative patterns of behavior that harm your emotional well-being and undermine your self-esteem. In these relationships, one person may consistently drain the other’s energy, create feelings of insecurity, or foster a sense of obligation without offering genuine support or respect in return. Here are some key traits that define a toxic friendship:

  • Lack of support 
  • Isolation 
  • Manipulation 
  • Constant criticism 
  • Jealousy and competition 
  • Emotional drain 

Therapy for addressing toxic friendships

Therapy can be a powerful tool for addressing and healing feelings of distress related to toxic friendships. It provides a safe space to explore the emotional impact of negative relationships. In individual therapy, you can delve into the underlying causes of these feelings, heal from associated emotional wounds like low self-esteem and anxiety, and develop coping strategies to enhance your emotional well-being.

Group therapy can also be beneficial, offering a supportive setting where individuals can connect with others facing similar challenges. Sharing experiences in this format can reduce feelings of isolation, foster new friendships, and encourage the development of social skills. Additionally, therapy can focus on building effective communication and relationship skills, empowering you to express your feelings, initiate conversations, and establish healthy boundaries.

What’s the link between toxic friendships and mental health?

Toxic friendships can have a profound impact on mental health, significantly increasing the risk of various psychological disorders. According to research, toxic relationships can cause emotional distress, physical health issues, and behavioral changes. These can manifest as anxiety, depression, and symptoms related to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The link also goes the other way — people who have deeper, more meaningful connections have significantly improved survival chances, research shows. Recognizing and addressing the feelings associated with toxic friendships is crucial for maintaining overall mental health. Seeking support through therapy and cultivating positive social connections can help mitigate the effects of toxicity and promote emotional resilience. By prioritizing healthy relationships, individuals can foster a more supportive environment that enhances their well-being.