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AIBU?

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Original poster

Work colleagues or friends?

29 replies

StrugglingAsAlways · 15/01/2025 10:19

So I’m on a phased return at the moment after being off with mental health issues, namely anxiety and depression. Anxiety has been exacerbated by work as there is a lot of change going on. I am, or thought I was, really good friends with a colleague. We are a hybrid working from home team but we have always got on. Since I’ve been on the phased return I’ve barely heard anything from her. It feels so shit. My husband says that your work colleagues are not your friends. Is he right?

OP posts:
Emilianoo · 15/01/2025 10:24

Has she heard much from you? She might feel awkward and not know what to say. I have some great friends for life I met at work, but most colleagues are just that, even friendly ones.

JacquesHarlow · 15/01/2025 10:24

How many posts have we seen on here @StrugglingAsAlways where we see typically cold MNetters saying

"My colleague at work is off with mental health issues and I am picking up all the slack at work. My boss doesn't understand I'm doing two jobs. It's unreasonable"...

SoNiceToComeHomeTo · 15/01/2025 10:24

Colleagues can be friends but like any friendship they can wax and wane. If you still like your colleague, you could get in touch now and then and hope that eventually you become closer again. She may not know what to say about your MH problems at the moment but that could change.

LittleRedRidingHoody · 15/01/2025 10:22

In my opinion he is - I've been burnt a few times 😬 You can always try and reach out a bit more, and things may change over time, but it also may not work. I'm sorry, it really sucks!