Supporting a Friend Who Pulls Away
Launch library · evergreen read
Withdrawal is a common response to a hard time, and it can be hurtful when a friend pulls away from contact you are trying to offer. Understanding this as part of their struggle, rather than a personal rejection, can help you respond with patience rather than frustration. It is entirely reasonable to feel unsure about how to begin.
Low pressure, occasional contact, a message with no expectation of a reply, a standing open invitation, tends to work better than persistent pursuit. Letting a friend know the door remains open, without forcing them through it, respects their pace while keeping connection available. A steady, unhurried pace tends to serve this kind of situation well.
If withdrawal continues for a long time, gently checking in on their wellbeing remains appropriate. Lifeline is available on 13 11 14 at any hour, and Beyond Blue offers support on 1300 22 4636. This is not something that needs to be resolved in a single conversation.