A psychologist recommended a way to distinguish a true friend from an acquaintance

There are several ways to understand if a person is truly your friend. In particular, you can conduct a so-called "closeness test," as psychiatrist Irina Krashkina told "Gazeta.Ru".

"First of all, it's worth observing their behavior. Ask yourself questions: who more often initiates communication, who provides support in difficult moments, can you be yourself around this person. Keeping an 'emotional diary' for 2-4 weeks will help you notice recurring patterns of interaction.

Secondly, test personal boundaries. Share something important, but not too intimate, and watch the reaction. Will the person show empathy and attention or, conversely, change the subject, joke it off, ignore it? This will show how emotionally involved they are," the expert explained.

The third step, according to Krashkina, could be a "closeness test."

"Ask for a small but personal favor - for example, to look after your cat on the weekend or allow you to come over if you suddenly feel unwell. A true friend won't make a problem out of this: they will either agree or honestly explain why they can't, offering an alternative. Sometimes the most reliable way is an open conversation. The main thing is that it shouldn't sound like an accusation, but rather be exploratory. This will help create space for sincere dialogue.

It's important to understand that not all relationships need to be deep. Acquaintances, colleagues, neighbors, or hobby companions can also bring joy, support, and pleasant communication. Just don't expect from them the level of closeness that is characteristic of true friendship. Free yourself from expectations that another person is not ready or not able to meet," concluded the psychologist.