DEAR ABBY: I have a friend, "Libby," who has a lot of personal problems. She recently confided that I am the only person who keeps her going day to day. She has attached herself to me because of my "step-on-me" personality, and I have allowed it.
I don't mind her telling me her problems, but she's putting too much pressure on me by making me her crutch. (Without me, she would fall permanently.) Please don't think I am selfish, but I have a lot to deal with personally in my own life.
How can I lessen my load without cracking her fragile personality? -- STRETCHED TO THE LIMIT IN WYOMING
DEAR STRETCHED: Lighten your load by no longer allowing your friend to put off resolving her problems by confiding them in someone who isn't equipped to help her. Libby needs a licensed psychotherapist. If she can't afford one, please tell her (kindly) that help is available on a sliding-fee scale through your county department of mental health services or social services. Take her to her first appointment if necessary, and then start backpedaling from there.