i had to block her…

It sounds like you’re going through something incredibly tough, and honestly, your feelings are so valid. Deciding to block an old friend, especially when it feels like a last resort, is never easy. It's a huge step towards protecting your own peace, and it often comes with a lot of self-doubt. Just like you're experiencing now with your mutual friends, it’s common to question if you were 'overreacting' or being 'cold' for simply trying to safeguard your emotional well-being. I've been there, navigating the tangled web of a friends group where one person constantly drains your energy. When a friendship consistently leaves you feeling used, unvalued, or emotionally exhausted, it's a clear sign that something needs to change. These are the classic red flags: they "only reach out when convenient," there are "no real check-ins," and the effort is consistently one-sided. You might feel like you're always giving, always initiating, and always making excuses for their behavior. When open communication or setting verbal boundaries doesn't work, or if your attempts are met with dismissal, a more definitive step like blocking a friend can feel like the only way to truly disconnect from that negative energy. It’s not about creating drama; it’s about self-preservation and recognizing your worth. One of the hardest parts, as you've found, can be dealing with mutual friends. It’s natural for them to have their own opinions, especially if they’re only hearing one side of the story or are uncomfortable with conflict. They might feel caught in the middle or misunderstand your intentions. However, it's crucial to remember that your personal emotional health isn't up for public debate, and you don't owe anyone an explanation you're not ready to give. If you choose to address it, you can calmly explain that you needed to set a boundary for your mental well-being, or simply state that it was a personal decision without delving into every painful detail. Real friends will respect your choice and understand that sometimes, relationships run their course or become unhealthy. It's not about being 'wrong' for setting a boundary; it's about recognizing what you need to thrive. After *blocking friends*, it’s common to feel a mix of relief, guilt, and sadness. Allow yourself to process these complex emotions. Take time to reflect on what you learned from that friendship, what boundaries you need in future relationships, and what kind of connections you want to cultivate going forward. Focus on strengthening the friendships that do nourish you. Remember that protecting your peace isn't selfish; it's essential for your overall well-being. You are not alone in making these difficult decisions to create a healthier space for yourself. Your experience resonates with anyone who has had to make tough choices to prioritize their mental health, even if it meant stepping away from someone they once cared deeply for. The image caption "i block my old friend. Am i wrong?" perfectly encapsulates this internal struggle, but ultimately, your peace comes first.