Emotion: sadness
Problem: problems with friends
Situation: Since the pandemic started my once strong friendships have become weak. we barely talk. Even my daughters God mother is not as present. I am unsure how to fortified those connections.

assistant: Hi. What brings you here today?

user: I am having a hard time with the realization that my once strong friendships are no longer as strong. I feel disconnected with them. The limitations the pandemic has set for all of us have been great. I am unsure if I will ever regain those friendships

assistant: I understand that. The pandemic has been very hard to keep connected with everyone. Have you tried talking to your friends about how you are feeling?

user: Yes, I have tried to message them daily, but the responses have always been clipped and or the response comes after couple days. I do feel other friendships have formed within each community, feeling a bit left out. I feel silly, like a teenage girl, who wants to be included. Just want to feel as though I am still part of their lives.

assistant: It's completely normal to feel like that. I have been in your exact shoes. I would suggest inviting one of them out for lunch or dinner and express face to face how you are feeling right now.

user: I was thinking the same thing, but I am unsure I feel awkward now, I feel like I do not them as I thought I did. I am unsure why I feel this way. one of them is my daughters god mother and the text are there but they are not like they use.. I am unsure if I should ask why she has time for others and not us... just saying it makes me feel weird anyone there?

assistant: She may be going through something at home or having family issues. We truly never know what the other person is going through unless we have that uncomfortable situation. My suggestion would be to rephrase that question slightly to her.

user: I agree with you, just seems really strange since we were inseparable before the pandemic. I am also aware many are going through this situation just thought my friendships were stronger and distant would not be an issue. I will, never did I think I would hesitate whats going on..

assistant: It's completely natural. Instead of texting her, have you tried calling?

user: Yes, I have. The conversation have been superficial, like small talk. There is nothing to share, I am guessing. My daughter has had lots of dance functions despite the pandemic and yet I have not felt supported. Perhaps shes not okay with venturing out during the pandemic.. though I do see on social media shes meeting other friends in social settings. Perhaps I need to be more open and not be so distant? Maybe its me and I am not seeing it?

assistant: How long have you been friends?

user: we are both 35 and we met in pre K. we are lifetime friends. shes a sister to me. At some point our parents use to live in the same apartment complex, our parents are great friends as well. I was there for her babies birth, when she found out what she was having. We have shared grand moments together.

assistant: You both have been friends for such a long time. I'm so jealous of friendships like that. I would definitely ask her for lunch. You all have been through so much together. This conversation with her would be a weight off your shoulders.

user: Yes, shes the serious one and I am the loud and carefree one. So having our roles a bit reverse has me a bit, weirded out. I am an only child, and perhaps that makes me feel extremely unconfident. I am sure if asked, she would respond I am just being needy. eh, I will ask, since the pandemic ive only seen her once.

assistant: I do not think she would respond that way at all. Once she sees that this has you concerned about your friendship, she will take it serious and open up to you.

user: You are right! thank you for the reinsurance. I hate that I am this way. you have helped me so much today, thank you for helping see things differently.

assistant: I'm an only child as well so I understand how you are feeling :) you are welcome! Glad I could help!

user: AWESOME! then you know the overwhelming need (sometimes) of being included. I think I have a plan, lunch and talk to her about how I am feeling, shes always been so understanding, I miss her babies so much.

assistant: Yes! It can be frustrating at times. But it sounds like you have a plan in order. You just need to execute it.

user: Yes, I do , thank you! have a wonderful weekend.