TeenConnect: Your Healings April 15, 2024 Issue

When my best friend spread rumors about me

Holly Bell

Originally appeared online in the teen series Your Healings - January 30, 2024

I love spending time with my friends. Whether it’s catching up after a long time apart or seeing each other every day, I’ve always found quality time important, and I love the warmth and support that friendships provide.

A few years ago, though, something changed. My best friend of five years suddenly didn’t want to be my friend. One day at school, she ignored me every time I tried to speak to her. I couldn’t figure out what was wrong. And when I went to school the next day, things had gotten even worse.

People called me names as I walked past them in the hallway and passed notes about me in class.