I'm like that with my kids. They only want to talk with me and it's all their emotions, feelings and thoughts just everything. They are all autistic and all vent to me. It's draining at times but I would never turn them away. I just get so tired and ache for ages. I have to remain impartial as they talk about family members so its taking in all of everything they have. Xx

My therapist recently told me that I need to recognize when I should put down the emotional backpack.

This backpack represents the caring, empathetic part of me. I need to take care of myself before I can take care of others.

Once th backpack is down, I need to set boundaries and put myself first.

Victoria, your post reminded me of myself. I also talk to people everywhere. My husband used to questions why I would share things and I told him if I can help just one person, it is worth it. Then, he got it, when it happened in an elevator once with a woman who was really struggling.

Absolutely yes, I literally can't be in a crowd of people talking. I used to pop up the charity shop and cafe that is run by volunteers. If it is quiet I'm fine. When it's busy and so many people are trying to speak to me I get buzzing in my ears and headaches. I.have to leave. So I now go half an hr before the cafe closes. Plus this is a small island. It's full of gossip. I can feel all eyes on me waiting to jump in with some question.
I have tried explaining to people I can't sit for long and what the pain feels like. Not for attention, So they don't just grab hold of me and pop me in a bear hug. It's extremely sweet of them yet someone did it the other day and she squeezed me so hard my discs popped out again. She's not as tall as I yet much bigger. I'm quite small. So yes indeed. I prefer nature to most people. I'm not interested in their gossip. They should come with zips on their mouths 😂🌷🌻🌼

I become so exhausted with any intense emotional conversation. At the same time, my anxiety joins in on the whole experience. I just go lay down on my bed. My sweet wonderful two dogs get on the bed and snuggle up against me. They make me smile and laugh everyday.