Sometimes that happens with people. But everyone deserves to have friends that build them up, not tear them down. We become like the people we hang around, it's just the way it is. And beyond that, if you're told lies or negative things about yourself often enough, even when they're untrue, you will begin to believe them, and that's not right either. If you don't like how things are and it is a problem for you, then by all means you should do something to change it. This was a hard decision for me to come to as well, and ultimately, no matter what anyone else tells you that you should do, you have to be the one to make that final decision and determine what it is you want and what you think is best for you. Until it becomes your choice, you'll likely end up in the limbo of "it's really not that bad" for a while, making excuses for their behavior or your decisions/indecision regarding them. But when you can't pretend things are different anymore, when it's crystal clear that you are involved in destructive relationships (if you decide that you are), then you will see that things need to change, and taking action to change them will become easier. The limbo land is the hardest, when you're not sure what to do, what the right thing to do is. Take your time figuring out what you need to do. I stand by what I said earlier, just try to spend more time with those you consider real friends and less time with those who are so negative. It's a way to start.

And now that I read the new post...Congratulations on talking with your friends! That takes a lot of courage, and I know it's difficult, but I'm sure you feel better about yourself and the situation for doing it. I hope things will continue to get better!