Dear Orlando,

My friend Jazmine never calls me or wants to hang out but whenever I run into her at a bar she acts like we’re best friends and says things like “I miss you! How come you never call me?!” and then tells everyone we’re best friends. She drinks a lot and gets totally crazy and says things like “The phone works both ways, honey!” It’s weird, because we rarely see each other but when we do it’s too intense for me because she’s always wasted and way too needy. How should I deal with this situation so I’m not constantly being accosted by her when she’s drunk?

Yours,

She’s Not My Friend

Dear She’s Not,

It sounds like your friend may have a drinking problem which is adding to you difficulty relating to her. I would talk to some of Jazmine’s closer friends and ask them what they think about her and her drinking habits. You’re not a doctor but you should express your concern if you think she’s always blitzed and acting crazy all the time. As far as dealing with her neediness, I’d let her know (when she’s sober) that her actions seem a little extreme to you. You can put it nicely, just tell her you’re concerned. It’s hard to work through friendship issues with someone who is drunk so I’d recommend making a commitment to meet up for lunch or shopping or something. If you still feel uncomfortable with her neediness after spending quality time together, let her know you need to cool it off a little bit. If this doesn’t get her off your back when you run into her at the bar, I’d start wearing costumes when you go out. Maybe dye you hair and wear sunglasses or something. Then maybe people will think you are famous and buy you drinks. Just a thought.

Love,

Orlando