8 Friendship Red Flags Indian Culture Teaches Us to Ignore

3. The Burden of Emotional Labor

In many Indian friendships, there exists an unspoken expectation that one friend will shoulder the emotional burdens of the other. This dynamic often goes unchallenged, as being a good friend is equated with being an emotional anchor. However, when emotional labor becomes one-sided, it can lead to burnout and resentment. A balanced friendship should involve mutual emotional support, where both parties feel comfortable sharing their struggles and joys. Recognizing this red flag is vital to ensuring both friends feel valued and supported.