DEAR ABBY: I have a friend I grew close to a few years ago. After she moved an hour away, we saw each other only occasionally. I have come to realize that I’m no longer interested in the friendship. She focuses mostly on herself, and I no longer enjoy her company.

I started communicating less and less often with her in an effort to let the relationship fade away, hoping the distance would allow for a more natural break. It has been a few years since I have communicated with her, but she continues to email, text and contact me on social media. I have not responded. Should I have handled this differently? I didn’t formally say goodbye, largely because I didn’t know what to say to end it. Please help. — AT A LOSS FOR WORDS IN ILLINOIS

DEAR AT A LOSS: Because such a long time has elapsed since you were close, I don’t think any “announcements” are necessary. If her messages and posts annoy you, simply block them.

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Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.