← All scenarios
📞

Friend Going Through Divorce

Your close friend is going through a messy divorce and has been calling you multiple times a day to vent. You want to be supportive, but it's starting to affect your own mental health and daily life.

Try this scenario interactivelyTalk to Rizz about this
Recommended responseOption B · EQ 9/10

Have a caring conversation about boundaries — commit to regular check-ins while also encouraging professional support.

Why it works

Psychologists distinguish between 'emotional support' (which friends provide) and 'therapeutic support' (which professionals provide). Your friend likely needs both, and you're helping them get the full support they deserve.

Try this phrase

"I love you, and I want to keep supporting you. I also think you deserve more than just me — have you considered talking to a therapist? They can help in ways I can't, and I'll still be here for the friend stuff."

All four ways you could respond

Every choice tells you something about your style. Here's an honest read on each.

AEQ 4/10

Keep being available 24/7 — they need you right now.

In aviation, they say 'put on your own oxygen mask first.' Compassion researchers have found that sustainable support requires self-care. You're more helpful when you're well.

BEQ 9/10Best

Have a caring conversation about boundaries — commit to regular check-ins while also encouraging professional support.

Psychologists distinguish between 'emotional support' (which friends provide) and 'therapeutic support' (which professionals provide). Your friend likely needs both, and you're helping them get the full support they deserve.

CEQ 4/10

Start avoiding their calls — you'll respond when you have energy.

Reliability is more important than availability. A friend who answers twice a week with full presence is more valuable than one who picks up every call while resentfully half-listening.

DEQ 5/10

Tell them you can't handle hearing about it anymore.

Boundaries delivered with care strengthen relationships. The key is pairing honesty about your limits with reassurance about your commitment.

Want to practice this with feedback for your exact answer?

Open in interactive mode →

The content on this page is supportive guidance inspired by published research. It is not a substitute for licensed professional therapy. If you are in crisis, please call 988 or visit our crisis resources.