Navigating Friendships During Withdrawal

Relationships are hard enough even when life is normal. But when you’re in psychiatric drug withdrawal, everything changes—including how you connect with friends. In this video, I want to talk specifically about friendship and withdrawal.

I already shared a video on how to survive withdrawal with your marriage intact, and I'm expanding into a series on relationships during withdrawal: marriage, friendship, community, and more. Let’s talk honestly about how to navigate this confusing, exhausting season.

When Withdrawal Changes How You Relate

When I was in the thick of withdrawal—some of the worst parts—I felt like I couldn’t relate to people normally anymore. All I could think about or talk about was withdrawal. I was looping so badly, I didn’t know how I’d ever have a normal, mutual friendship again.

It was scary. And if you’re in that place too, I want to encourage you: your ability to relate to people will come back.

It’s like having the flu in your brain—but for an extended time. You’re not going to stay in that state forever. Eventually you won’t be constantly thinking about symptoms. You won’t be stuck in looping thoughts. You’ll be doing life again, having conversations, and showing up in relationships the way you used to. You will heal.

When Your Friends Just Don’t Understand

Friendship in withdrawal can get muddy. You may have long-term friends who really love you—but they just don’t understand what you’re going through. And that can feel incredibly isolating.

My encouragement: don’t give up on those relationships. But you might need to press pause for a while.

Let them know you love them, but you’re struggling. Be honest. Say, “It’s me, not you,” and communicate that while you care about the friendship, you just don’t have the energy or clarity to maintain it in the same way. That doesn’t mean it’s over. You can reconnect in time.

And yes, I had experiences where I know I didn’t communicate perfectly. Some friends were upset with me. Some didn’t agree with my decision to come off meds. That’s okay. It just might mean this isn’t something we connect about—and that’s allowed.

Let People Love You the Way They Can

Some people won’t understand what you’re going through—but they’re still supportive. They show up. They care. They’re kind, even if they don’t “get it.”

If you have a friend like that, lean on them.

One of my friends came and did my laundry when I was at my worst. I was barely functioning—stuck in kindling, full of symptoms—and she just showed up and helped. That meant the world to me.

Even if you can’t reciprocate right now, just receive what they offer. Be thankful. You’ll be able to give back later.

Finding a Withdrawal Buddy

One of the most healing things for me was reconnecting with a friend who had gone through withdrawal too. She really understood. We talked on the phone regularly, and I just knew it was God’s provision.

If you can find someone like that—a withdrawal buddy—it makes a huge difference. Someone who can say, “Yes, I’ve been there. You’re going to get through this.” Their support is powerful because they know the darkness. They know it won’t last.

Friendship with God

Even if no one else understands, God does.

He was the best friend I had during withdrawal. There were days I didn’t know how I was going to make it, and I clung to the truth that He hears, sees, and walks with me.

The Bible says God came that we might have life—and have it abundantly. He doesn’t want you stuck at the end of your rope forever. He wants connection, healing, and restoration for you.

Online Support Groups Can Help Too

If you don’t have a supportive friend right now, you’re not out of options. I joined online support groups—calls hosted by people like Angie Peacock—and they were a lifeline.

Just seeing others, asking questions, and hearing their stories helped me so much.

You’re not crazy. You’re not alone. Others are surviving this too—and they’re getting better.

You might find a withdrawal buddy through those calls or in forums. Or you can book a session with me—I’d love to walk with you through this.

You Will Get to the Other Side

I want to say it again: healing happens.

A year ago, I would have been shocked to see my life now. I’m hosting events, going to the beach, eating ice cream with friends, and laughing with my kids. I’m doing life—and it’s good.

There’s more life after this. So hold on. Keep reaching out. Let people love you the way they can. Don’t give up.

You’re not alone—and you’re going to make it.

❤️ Joanna