A new study has found that nearly half of British adults feel burnt out by the pressure to maintain friendships, with many describing the effort as exhausting. The research, conducted by the mental health charity Mind, surveyed 2,000 adults across the UK and revealed that 45% of respondents feel overwhelmed by the demands of adult friendships.
Key findings on friendship fatigue
The study highlights that 1 in 3 Brits find maintaining friendships more tiring than their job, and 28% admit to avoiding social plans because they feel too drained. According to the report, the average adult spends over two hours per week managing friendships, including texting, calling, and organising meetups. Dr. Emma Hepburn, a clinical psychologist and author, commented: "We often put pressure on ourselves to be the 'perfect friend', but this can lead to burnout. It's important to prioritise quality over quantity and communicate openly with friends about your needs."
Impact on mental health
The pressure to maintain friendships is particularly affecting younger generations, with 62% of 18-34-year-olds reporting friendship burnout compared to 29% of those aged 55 and over. The study also found that 22% of Brits have ended a friendship because it felt too demanding. Mind's head of information, Stephen Buckley, said: "Friendships are vital for our wellbeing, but they shouldn't add to our stress. We need to normalise having honest conversations about what we can realistically give."
Tips for healthier friendships
Experts recommend setting boundaries, such as not feeling obligated to reply to messages immediately, and focusing on a few close relationships rather than a large social circle. The study suggests that adults who prioritise quality over quantity report lower stress levels and higher satisfaction in their friendships. Buckley added: "It's okay to step back and reassess your friendships. True friends will understand."
