A friend with a nasty disposition - What should I do?

Question

I have an old friend who I tend to avoid because of her argumentative and sometimes outright hateful disposition. She was not like this years ago but seems to have taken on these negative traits since early adulthood. Clinical depression is part of the mix that makes up her mental state (which she refuses to take medication for). There are other issues going on as well besides the depression.

I keep in touch by e-mailing but make no attempt at face-to-face meetings anymore. They are too painful to endure. I feel worse after the lunch, etc. than beforehand. (She will start an argument in the restaurant without warning.)

I tend to be a happy yet very private person. Interaction with this friend from the past really gets me down. My family knows somewhat how this person behaves but I avoid letting them know details.

Answer 1

Get new friend. No one needs this crap in their life.

Answer 2

Tell her to shut up.

Answer 3

ya