Raele Altano offers three scripts for when someone is emotionally dumping on you. Tell them you're overwhelmed and need to pause, suggest they talk to a therapist instead, or ask for a quick check-in before they vent. She also recommends doing activities together like exercise or movies to avoid one-on-one venting.
Here's what to say when someone is constantly emotionally dumping on you and you want to set boundaries without hurting feelings. As always, here are a few options, starting by giving the person the benefit of the doubt. Hey, I'm not sure if you realize this, and I know there's so much going on right now, but lately I've been feeling a little overwhelmed with all the things you've been sharing with me. We take a break and come back to this conversation another time. Option 2 I hope you know I'm always here for you, but I don't think I'm the right person for you to be coming to about this stuff. I Is there maybe another person that you can speak to, like a therapist or a coach who can help you get solutions? Option 3 I know we both like to vent, but sometimes I would appreciate if you just checked in first before you did. It can be a great little buffer, and I'll be sure to do the same too for you. Another suggestion that isn't necessarily something you say, but something you do is to go to an activity with that person. Take an exercise class or a painting class, or go see a movie together, rather than just catching up over coffee or drinks or dinner all the time.
