I hope I’m not overthinking and reacting

I've been in a similar situation where a friend’s sarcastic remarks and dismissive responses left me feeling confused and hurt. It’s tough to figure out if you're overreacting or if the behavior is genuinely alienating. For me, consistent sarcasm paired with minimal effort in communication, especially when affectionate gestures are met with terse replies like 'K,' was a red flag about how much they valued the friendship. Reflecting on past experiences, such as being excluded in middle school social dynamics, often magnifies insecurities but also signals patterns worth paying attention to. What helped me was talking openly about my feelings with that friend, which sometimes clarified misunderstandings. However, if the response remained cold or unchanged, I gradually shifted my focus toward nurturing relationships where my kindness and presence were truly appreciated. It’s important to trust your feelings; if you frequently feel dismissed or left out, it’s not just overthinking. Healthy friendships should make you feel supported, not anxious about how you’re perceived. Additionally, sometimes friends who habitually use sarcasm might struggle with expressing emotions straightforwardly, but it doesn't give them the right to invalidate your kindness. Setting boundaries and communicating what you need from the friendship can lead either to improvement or help you decide if it’s time to move on. Remember, valuing yourself enough to seek respectful and genuine connections is key to emotional well-being.