I believe in being honest but as you said you care about them and don't want to hurt them. Try telling them that. Tell them that you care about them, but other peoples problems are overwhelming you. Tell them that you don't want to hurt them and you want to be friends but you need some space and a little time away for other peoples problems because you have some as well. Make it about you and not about them when you tell them. Don't tell them they are messaging to much... Tell them that you need some relief from getting too many messages from others. Be honest yes but don't be hurtful. Honesty can be achieved without being blunt and when people say take care of yourself first... Well yes, but that doesn't mean disregard all others in the process and I think that's your concern.

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