DEAR MASSI, I have known my best friend for as far back as I can remember.

We used to spend all of our free time together and, in some ways, we are more like sisters.

We have never let things get between us and I felt I could trust her with everything.

However, things have changed for the worse. When we first got together we could talk for hours and we shared everything. Recently, though, all we seem to do is argue. And she always needs to get the last word which really makes me angry and I just feel as if she doesn't understand me anymore.

She even does things, like going out without asking me, which makes me feel worthless.

It seems that I am the one who is always expected to apologise and I am beginning to resent this. I am becoming increasingly depressed and feel that she is being very selfish. What should I do? I don't have that many friends and I don't want to lose this one..

JK Blackburn

MASSI SAYS,

It seems your friend has some sort of issue with you and the only thing I can suggest is that you talk to her. And this has to be a serious talk.

It may be that you have been spending too much time with each other and in my experience that can sometimes be a real headache.

It's a well known fact that we all argue with the people who we are closest to you. Maybe it's time to give your friend some space and allow her a couple of days and see if she gets in touch with you.

If she truly is as good a friend as you say she is then she will let you know about it and things should work out. On the other hand if she isn't willing to sort things out then I don't think you should just be her friend for the sake of it. A friendship requires equal input and understanding from both parties and if she isn't prepared to do her bit then I think you would be better off without her.

It may upset you at first but maybe she'll then realise how good a friend you were to her.