1. They only reach out when they need help.
This is one of the easiest ways to identify if someone is taking advantage of you. Does it seem like your friend only reaches out when they need something? Does it feel like the only time you hear from them is when they need advice, money, or some kind of assistance? Chances are that they are only after those things - not your friendship.
2. They don’t listen to you, but always expect you to listen to them.
Your friend expects you to listen to you to a 30 minute vent, but when you need a shoulder to cry on, you don’t receive their full attention. That’s a little selfish don’t you think?
2. They only want to hang out when it’s convenient for them.
They want your schedule to revolve solely around what works best for them - which is not fair. In healthy friendships, both people should be able to discuss their schedules and compromise.
3. They’re constantly asking for favors.
Good friends happily do favors for each other. Although, if your friend is constantly asking you to do favors for them without helping you when you need it, it may be time to re-evaluate what you’re receiving from the friendship.
5. You’re usually the one who pays
If you notice that your friend never offers to pay for anything, seems to conveniently “miss” their wallet when the check arrives, or is not responding to your Venmo requests, it might be time to have a talk with them.
6. They don’t show interest in your personal life.
A friend should care about how you’re doing, your well being, and the things that are going on in your life. If your friend rarely asks how you are doing and the conversation always seems to revolve around them, it shows where their priorities are.
These are just a few signs that your friend may be taking advantage of you. If you identify that a few of these things are happening, don’t worry! The friendship doesn’t have to end tomorrow. It may just signal that it’s time to have a conversation and change the dynamic a little. Having a conversation like that can be a difficult and sensitive one. It may be a good idea to seek some advice from a good friend, family member, or relationship expert like a talk therapist.
