We've all been there.

One minute you're hanging out with all of your closest pals; spending the day exploring parts of your city, lounging by the pool, pulling pranks, and even getting a little tipsy. It feels like you guys are having the most fun of your lives. Then, slowly, you begin to notice all of the negative, destructive vibes your "friends" are giving out.

People begin to talk behind your back, rumors are spread, sides are picked, and you're left feeling entirely empty. Although this seems like a tragic loss, cutting out these harmful individuals is the best thing for your mental stability. Here's why...

1. They never had your best interest at heart.

A lot of times, we tend to look past important events that show our friends true colors. This is because we are terrified of the facts. The truth is, all of those times you felt uncomfortable or like they were talking behind your back, they most likely were. Real friends do not make you feel unsure of their loyalty. If you are even questioning whether or not they hurt you on purpose, cut them off. Because honey, they definitely did. Do not ignore your intuition.

2. Your self-worth will never stop suffering otherwise.

If you are fully aware that your friends are not looking out for you, it's time to let go. I know it can be difficult to cut people off, but if you don't, your confidence and self-value will drastically decline. Allowing destructive people to stay in your life simply because you are scared is unhealthy. Nobody should be put above yourself; especially not people that could care less what happens to you.

3. They will continue to use you.

Users don't care who they hurt in their path. Their goal is to suck people dry no matter what it takes. If you are an easygoing person like me, it can be difficult to spot the users from the genuine friends. If they only hit you up for a ride, money, a place to stay, or when they're in a crisis; THEY'RE USING YOU.

Real friends are there for you as often as they can be and ask for help when it is really needed. I know we all have those associates from high school that we feel bad for, but they will do anything to get what they want. Cut the ropes loose and be free from it.

4. They will ruin your ability to trust anyone else.

If you are someone who lets people walk all over you, your trust in society as a whole will begin to dwindle. Think about it: If you are constantly being used and abused by your closest "friends," the last thing you are gonna want to do is make more. Bad friendships can make is so difficult to bounce back and put yourself out there.

Close bonds like this are so important to development and once we get hurt all the time, we tend to be weary of letting another individual walk into our lives. The sad part is, if you cut off the toxic people in the beginning, you might feel more confident in new friendships in the future.