Hi Angsty. Well, To use your words.....Why the %$#@ give them the power to give a %$#@ about what they say! Seriously, if someone is not really a friend, or you do not feel that they have your best interest at heart, DONT GIVE A you know what as to what they say!
In this life you will come across people who care, people who dont and people that act like they care. The last of that group will become obvious very quickly! Take them out of your address book. And those who do care, dont abuse their "caring" and be there for them when needed and you will find out who your friends are.

Believe me the naughty list will be a lot better then the nice. Just the way things are. Love Yourself, Care about Yourself, Your Opinion, Your Thoughts and then a little bit of credit on others opinions and I think you will be much better off!!