I'm sure we've all been through it. Out of kindness we extend a charitable act to someone in need. But, that act backfires. Suddenly this person latches on to you, thinking you are now their best friend. They call repeatedly expecting you to do everything with them - AND FOR THEM.

My issue is I just have a problem saying 'no' and now feel myself roped into and obliged to help.

I recently reached out to a woman in my support group that hadn't shown up for a while. I just wanted to make sure she was okay. It turns out she isn't so I had her over for coffee. Note, she hasn't returned the favour. Instead she has been calling every day pleading for help: she needs a drive, she needs help cleaning her house, and so on. The worst are the hints she expects financial help (which she doesn't. I'm not giving her money for smokes, booze, and dope).

I feel trapped. She knows I do not work or have commitments I can use and excuse.

I can't even begin to think how I can get out of this mess.