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Journalism of Courage
Relationship break-ups are intense, but so are those with friends. Have you ever felt a sudden silence from a friend and wondered what went wrong? Actor Tamannah Bhatia, who has had her share of such experiences, recently shared in an interview with Hauterfly how friendship break-ups are the worst. “I have had a bunch of friends that just vanished…But I see where it comes from; they don’t relate to me anymore, and I don’t relate to them anymore; it hurts. I wish it weren’t that way, I wish people were more accepting of each other…”
As a result, we often find ourselves replaying conversations, wondering if we did something wrong, and feeling the sting of rejection. Even small reminders of a song, a message, or a shared joke can trigger sadness or longing. It’s missing not just a friend, but the comfort, laughter, and security they brought into your daily life.
Dr Priyanka Bhosle, consultant psychologist at LimbiQ Centre for Psychiatry and Child Development, Delhi, explained that a friendship break-up is more than someone walking away; it’s losing the person who made you feel safe being yourself. People often feel emptiness, anxiety, or restlessness. While the differences may stem from various reasons, letting the indifference grow is an unhealthy way to address friendships, which are equally important as romantic relationships. It’s like losing the most important person, your go-to person, your confidante.
When friends outgrow each other, the hurt is often more than in a romantic partnership. Here’s why:
Dr Bhosle explained, “Friendships are often assumed to be unconditional, a space where we can be completely ourselves without expectations. Unlike romantic relationships, which involve compromise and give-and-take, friendships promise steady support and quiet understanding.”
That’s why when a friend suddenly disappears, the void sparks loneliness, self-doubt, or restlessness. Since friendships are built on trust, acceptance, and emotional intimacy without conditions, their loss often cuts deeper and lingers longer than many romantic breakups, the expert added.
The psychologist emphasised that modern life tests friendships with busy schedules, digital distractions, and personal boundaries. People may pull away, avoid hard conversations, or stop reaching out, leaving us feeling unseen.
But the true test of friendship lies in accepting each other’s imperfections and in open communication. “It’s all about showing up, listening, forgiving, and staying through life’s messiness. Those who remain despite flaws or distance are rare, and it’s that conscious choice to stay present that makes friendship sacred,” reiterated Dr Bhosle.
