Magnificent News: Carolyn Hax: Caretaker struggles with a lack of reciprocal support from friends

Saturday, July 9, 2022

Carolyn Hax: Caretaker struggles with a lack of reciprocal support from friends

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Advice to help you tackle life's problems.

(Nick Galifianakis for The Post)

Caretaker struggles with a lack of reciprocal support from friends

Adapted from an online discussion.

Hey Carolyn: Our household has had a slew of bad news — dead pets, prolonged health issues and job loss. As the caretaker for almost everyone around me I feel like while I am struggling it's not reciprocated. I get it, I feel like Eeyore all the time, which is not fun to talk to when I'm usually the bubbly one, but that's also a rough time to realize you don't really have the support you thought you would. I don't know what to ask for, I just know I am down and having trouble getting back up. I'm working with a therapist, so doing my own work, but I can't shake the extra sadness that comes from friendships that don't feel reciprocal. Help!?!?

— Can I Get a Break?

Read Carolyn's Response