Just so you know, the people who we surround ourselves with define who we are. Our friends shape our personalities and hobbies, our likes and dislikes, our feelings and moods. Unlike family, friends are completely chosen by us, giving special meaning to the friendships we forge in our lives.

If you're like me, you take your friendships very seriously. You'd do anything for your friends, whether they're at their best or worst.

But, if you find yourself making more excuses for them than usual, your friendship may be turning toxic.

Usually, when people talk about a toxic relationship, they're referring to people who are romantically involved. However, toxic friendships can be just as detrimental, while being far more difficult to spot.

You might be blissfully unaware of how bad your friendship has become, or maybe you're fully aware of the problem at hand. Either way, you need to ask yourself questions like these about your friendship:

"Do I often feel taken for granted/ taken advantage of by my friend?"

"Do they constantly apologize for the same action while refusing to change?"

"Am I always the one to put effort into this relationship?"

If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, your friendship may be taking a turn for the worst. It's important to know that you shouldn't cut someone off immediately. If you notice that your friend keeps bailing on you or making your self-esteem take a nose dive, approach them about it first.

My best friend and I recently sat down and talked to our other friend about some of his problematic behavior, and, through open discussion, we resolved the conflict without having to completely end the friendship.

Ideally, that's what you want. However, if that doesn't work, it's time to consider more drastic measures.

It's important that you aren't hard on yourself; Just like unhealthy romantic relationships, toxic platonic friendships are hard to realize while you're in one. And once you do realize it, you may find it hard to let that friendship go.

I know that feeling all too well; there are many friendships that I had to let go of over the years because those friendships made me feel inadequate and unappreciated. Friendship is a two-way street, and you deserve friends that will put in just as much effort as you do.

It's important to cherish the friendships we have. Good friends keep us from falling apart when it feels like the world is crashing down on us. In college, I have already found a group of friends that cherish and love each other, and it has made me happier than I've ever been in my life.

But it's important to figure out who truly has your back. Although it may be painful at first, cutting off a toxic friendship will give you peace of mind and save you a lot of heartbreak down the road.

Sincerely, A Girl Who's Happier Now