Reddit Users Answer What Made Them Quit Helping Other People In An Equally Sad And Entertaining Viral Post

It's always heartwarming to read good Samaritan stories. We're all bombarded by awful news day in and day out, so it's nice to read positive stories for once.

Despite good people willingly extending a helping hand to those in need, they don't always receive good karma. No good deed goes unpunished, right? This rings especially true for these individuals.

A curious mind on Reddit asked the question: What was your 'I'm done helping others' moment? Boy, oh boy, did Reddit overdeliver!

They answered the question with their real-life experiences of helping someone out and getting taken advantage of. These kind strangers weren't thanked at all; some were even yelled at by the very people they helped!

The stories seem unbelievable because what kind of person would behave that way? But when you think about it, some people really are just that shameless.

They don't even think they're doing anything wrong by pulling a fast one over you. If you're not the kind of person who would fake cancer or immediately abuse your missing dog after it's returned to you, then you will definitely enjoy reading these stories.

Reddit was asked, and Reddit delivered. Here are some of the most remarkable answers on the forum. Remember to breathe in and out because some of these answers are infuriating!

1. The good Samaritan who found a puppy, gave it back to the owner, then rescued it from the abusive owner

blitzen_vixen

2. This person who finally said enough is enough

bigfishcherrycoke

3. A well-deserved petty revenge against someone who thinks helping them is hitting on them. Ask your boyfriend for help then, Brenda.

retrobread_

The Emotional Toll of Selflessness

Research consistently shows that individuals who frequently help others may experience emotional exhaustion and burnout, particularly when their efforts are unreciprocated.

A study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology suggests that while altruism can enhance life satisfaction, it can also lead to feelings of resentment when the help is taken for granted.

This emotional toll can drive people to withdraw from helping behaviors entirely as they seek to protect their own mental well-being.

4. A person who was invited as a guest to a family event but her mom made her do all the cooking until she delivered the perfect one-liner

ScammerC

5. This person who needs to find better friends than this freeloader

badass_panda

6. The veterinarian and his staff who were working overtime to accommodate unscheduled walk-ins after hours but were fed up after people complained they were charging too much for going the extra mile

RoseFeather

Behavioral psychologists explain that giving without receiving can create a power imbalance in relationships, leading to frustration and disengagement.

According to research published in the Journal of Social Psychology, this phenomenon is known as the 'Law of Reciprocity,' which states that individuals expect a return of benefits after giving.

When this expectation is unmet, it can lead to a decline in motivation to help others.

7. This person who wanted to help a sick co-worker

Bigfatsmelly

8. This person who was shunned by her tight-knit community after being abused. The town also sided with the abuser.

OutcastTraveller

9. Sometimes the biggest help you can offer someone is saying no to them

red_eye_rob

Coping Mechanisms for Helpers

To mitigate the emotional burden of helping, it's crucial for individuals to establish boundaries regarding their availability and willingness to assist.

Psychologists recommend employing self-care strategies such as mindfulness and assertiveness training to maintain emotional balance.

By learning to say 'no' when necessary, helpers can preserve their mental health while still offering support when it’s appropriate.

10. A new neighbor who was happily taking advantage until they subtly mentioned a solution to his mooching ways

FireandIceT

11. The homophobic relatives who didn't approve of their "lifestyle choice" but accommodated this person because they make a mean Christmas dinner

duhbell

12. This person who got in a car accident on the way to help a mother in need

LifeIsSweetSoAmI

Social support networks play a vital role in emotional resilience, particularly for those who frequently engage in helping behaviors.

Research from the University of Michigan shows that individuals who have a strong network of supportive relationships are better equipped to manage the emotional toll of altruism.

Encouraging helpers to seek out like-minded individuals can foster a sense of shared experience and reduce feelings of isolation.

13. A childhood friend who threw a friendship over a game that he stole to gift to his brother

Danman500

14. When you help people out of the goodness of your heart but they won't make time for you at all... run!

BlorpusDorpus

15. This person who encountered an emotional and financial manipulator in the wild

vikinglizzie

Understanding the Psychology of Helping

The motivation to help others often stems from a complex interplay of personal values, past experiences, and social norms.

Studies have shown that individuals who have faced adversity themselves are often more empathetic and willing to help others in similar situations.

Understanding these underlying motivations can provide insights into why some individuals withdraw from helping behavior when they feel taken advantage of.

16. An educator who thought she was helping a mom but in reality stumbled upon a freeloader

mynameissarah

17. A quick-thinking couple who almost got robbed if they hadn't called the police

hideout78

18. A generous person who got tired of helping fake homeless people and learned to donate to organizations instead

Worlds_Best_Coffee

Training in empathy and emotional intelligence can enhance one's ability to give help without feeling drained.

Research suggests that individuals who cultivate these skills are more likely to engage in sustainable helping behaviors.

Workshops focusing on emotional regulation and active listening can equip individuals with the tools needed to help others effectively while maintaining their own emotional health.

19. The next-door neighbors who wanted a free daycare for their two toddlers

unknown

20. This person who faked having cancer to break up a marriage

Beastman33

21. This person's mom who was abused by the dad. What's with little towns siding with abusers?

Pawsie

The Long-Term Effects of Burnout

Experiencing burnout from helping can lead to long-term psychological issues such as anxiety and depression.

Research published in the Clinical Psychology Review highlights that without intervention, individuals may develop a negative self-image and a diminished sense of purpose.

Recognizing the signs of burnout early on and seeking professional help can prevent these adverse outcomes and promote healthier engagement in helping behaviors.

22. This person who got kicked out of his parents' place then got mad at his good friend for not letting him stay at his apartment without paying rent

unknown

23. This person who got treated like a moving company by someone he barely knows, and they didn't pay or feed him

iBelieveInSpace

24. This travel expert who offered services for free in exchange for reviews, but no one actually followed through

FakeCraig

25. This story of a freelancer getting ghosted is too common

KairiZero

26. A good person who learned their lesson the worst way possible

Shishi432234

Helping people without expecting anything in return is commendable. However, you have to be wary of those who won't hesitate to take advantage of your good intentions.

Constant vigilance! Do you have similar stories like these? Spill your tea, and maybe we can all learn a lesson or two!

Psychological Analysis

This phenomenon illustrates the delicate balance between giving and receiving in interpersonal relationships.

When individuals feel that their efforts are taken for granted, it can trigger withdrawal as a self-preservation mechanism.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In conclusion, while the desire to help others is often rooted in compassion, it’s crucial to recognize the potential emotional costs that can arise.

Building a framework of self-care and establishing boundaries can empower individuals to continue their altruistic endeavors without compromising their mental health.

As noted in psychological literature, fostering a culture of reciprocity can enhance relationships and create healthier dynamics for all involved.