Fed Up Coworker Sets Boundaries with Janices Relationship Drama

AITA for setting boundaries with coworker Janice over her relationship drama, prioritizing my own well-being after being her sole emotional support through a draining cycle?

Maryjane

Published in Interesting
31 Oct 2025

Fed Up Coworker Sets Boundaries with Janices Relationship Drama

Are you the designated shoulder to cry on for a coworker's relationship drama? Picture this: Your colleague, Janice, unloads her boyfriend issues on you after every fight, leaving you emotionally and mentally drained.

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Despite your efforts to offer advice and encourage her to seek help, she keeps going back to him, repeating the same cycle. Now, you're at a breaking point, feeling the impact on your work and mental health.

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The burning question: Are you wrong for wanting to set boundaries and opt out of being Janice's sounding board for her relationship woes? In the online forum, opinions are divided.

Some readers empathize with your need for self-care, noting that you can't pour from an empty cup and that you should prioritize your well-being. Others suggest having an honest conversation with Janice about your feelings instead of shutting her out completely.

The debate ranges from labeling you as not the antagonist for safeguarding your mental health to being advised to find a balance between supporting Janice and looking after yourself. It's a rich tapestry of perspectives on emotional support, boundaries, and workplace friendship dynamics.

What's your take on this relatable workplace dilemma?

Original Post

I (27F) work with a colleague, Janice (31F), who always shows up crying after fights with her boyfriend. Every time, she says she'll leave him, but never does.

I've been her only support through it all, listening to the same cycle on repeat. It's draining me emotionally and mentally.

I've tried offering advice, encouraging her to seek therapy, even suggesting she should consider breaking up for her own well-being. But every time, she goes back to him, and the cycle repeats.

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I care about Janice, but I can't handle being her sole emotional crutch anymore. It's affecting my work and my own mental health.

So, AITA for setting boundaries and not wanting to hear her relationship drama anymore?