Community Chat

[Yardlie]

I moved here from another state a year or so back. Right near the time I was moving (at my garage sale), I met a lady who lived in my neighborhood. She didn't have a car as she is somewhat mentally handicapped...graduated from high school, but has a lot of issues. She is monitored by her sister, goes to therapy, and has a dog.

Anyway, to be nice, I drove her to the store a couple times. She would come over to visit while I was packing. When I moved, she asked for my phone number so she could keep in touch. It seemed OK, so I gave her my number.

Well, now she calls every weekend, goes on and on about all her problems, all the family problems, how she doesn't get along with her family, etc. She starts bawling on the phone, and I can't understand a word she is saying. She has some bizarre family issues. She sees a therapist weekly. She calls me her only "friend." I feel so sorry for her, but I can't help her...other than to listen.

At first, I felt like I was doing an hour of community service just being nice to her by listening to her every week. But now, when the phone rings and I see her number, I just dread answering it and my stomach goes into knots. One time she said that she felt like blowing her head off. Then she said she was just kidding. I don't know her sister's last name, and I don't know her therapist. How would you handle this?

Thank you so much for your advice. I'm sure I will hear opposing views, but am open to all suggestions.