When Your Best Friend Feels Like a Stranger Overnight

Ever wake up and realize your best friend feels more like a neighbor you wave at than your go-to person? That was me last winter. One day, Alex and I were binge-watching shows and laughing at inside jokes in my cramped dorm room; the next, our texts felt like forced weather updates. I panicked—did I forget his birthday? Did my playlist offend him? After a mini-meltdown (and maybe a dramatic playlist), I learned from a mutual friend that Alex was dealing with his own mess. Instead of overthinking, I just asked him straight up if he was okay—no drama, just honesty. We tried new things together, like rock climbing (I’m still sore, thanks), and slowly, things shifted. Sometimes, friendships change, and that’s not always a bad thing. If it doesn’t go back to how it was, I remind myself: real friends help you grow, not hold you back. Sometimes, you gotta let go to move forward. 🌱 #friendship #change #growth