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.

Elegy · 46-50

You can't take responsibilities for his actions. He's being a parasite and you need to establish boundaries. Make it clear that you don't want him to go away but you do want more space and won't be as interactive going forward. Make sure that he understands that the alternative is to just block him out completely so that he can't take you hostage emotionally to advance his own agenda. You need time and space to deal with your life just as he is able to do for himself. If he can't handle that then ghost him, you gave him a chance. Sometimes you need to choose yourself.