How do I get space from a clingy friend?

I have some stuff going on that I want to sort out in my life, but there's this online friend who always wants me to give them attention. One time I explained to them briefly what was going on in my life, and that I would like some space...then later that day he took an overdose on pills. Luckily, he went to a hospital and is fine.

He does this to people who become his friend and I just wish he knew that people don't always reply to messages within an instant. He sends me messages about people who don't reply to him within a few hours. I don't hate this guy or anything, but I have my own issues to deal with. I do make time for him...but there is only so much I can do when he rarely takes advice. I am there to listen, but sometimes I just need a day to myself.

As soon as he sees me online he sends me a message and I told him that I am signed in automatically (it's on a social program/app) and I don't like receiving messages as soon as I come online and he finds that amusing but continues the habit anyway.

I know I can just ignore it, but that one day I took some time for myself he ended up overdosing...so I really don't know what I can do. I have suggested to him to get psychological help but he doesn't want to.

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Throger · 26-30, M

Well as someone who can be clingy, reassurance is a good thing. Let then know you aren’t leaving you just need time alone and that maybe he should to to figure some stuff in their too. But getting psychological help is a great step but something you can’t force on them. Have they ever shared why they wish not to go?

MissMoon · 26-30, F

@Throger When we talk about psychological help this is normally how it goes, they tell me they don't have time...so I help them plan ways to make time (e.g. cutting out his online chatting time or missing a class) but then he changes the topic to say he is hopeless so I try to reassure him he is not and try to get him back to the topic..so then he suggests stuff like the costs or how he would rather help himself. His family are trying to encourage him to go to specialists, but he doesn't like it. It is really sad. :/

Thanks for your response, I will try telling him next time that I am not leaving for good but just need some time alone.

Throger · 26-30, M

@MissMoon of course! And my advice is strictly coming from me being clingy myself so it’s just that side of the story. My advice may be bad for your stand point so listen to some other people too! 😊