The Rebbe's guidance on friendship, neighbors, and getting along with others:
The value of good friends. Sharing one's struggles with a trusted friend and seeking guidance helps overcome distraction and spiritual lows (IK 3536, 6960). Gradual steps and supportive friends are key to helping someone reintegrate socially and spiritually (IK 7370). Maintaining close ties with Anash brings practical help and strength (IK 8175, 8173). Unity among friends is essential for success in Torah endeavors (IK 5742), and the thoughts of close friends influence one another (IK 7281).
Seeking advice. Consult trusted friends who know your nature and circumstances before important decisions — about livelihood, settling in a new place, communal finances or time commitments (IK 10801, 10349, 10250, 9681).
Friends as a positive influence. Sincere words from friends can deeply affect a person (IK 8742), and friends can often influence one's children or relatives better than direct intervention (IK 9199, 9219). Enlisting true friends can also help restore shalom bayis (IK 2599, 4210). For loneliness or difficulty making friends, see Emotional well-being – Loneliness (and IK 6809).
Difficult people and disputes. When facing difficult neighbors, strengthen faith that only G-d controls one's fate, and respond with consistency (IK 1779, 4475). After a disagreement, efforts should be made to restore friendship (IK 7229), and disputes between two people are best resolved directly between them (IK 9386). Genuine interpersonal ethics are rooted in Torah values (IK 10144).
See also: Emotional well-being – Loneliness; Parenting – Friends and surroundings; Leadership – Avoiding and resolving disputes.