Ok, so I have a family member who clearly has a low self-esteem. I don't think they are trying to be manipulative, but I can't be certain.

But questions keep popping up, such as "Do you think I look too fat?" "Why would anybody like me?" These questions are negative enough, but come up way too often.

But worse are the statements, because I wonder what the intent is behind them. "I'm fat" "Nobody loves me". Are they really just wanting to tell me this? Or do they want me to rush in with the classic "Oh no, you're not fat, you're gorgeous!"

There is that twinge of annoyance in me, for sure. I don't mind reassuring someone going through a tough time, but over and over? If it's not helping them, should I bother? Is it best to reassure this person, or leave them alone?

A part of me also does wonder about manipulation. Can anyone relate to this post? I could use input, this is starting to annoy me.