Dear Prudence,
My roommate I believe has health anxiety. She does not have a formal psychological diagnosis but does regularly see a therapist. Said roommate tends to lament about new ailments every week. Usually, it ends up being a nonissue or something like a bruise that will go away in a few days. I know that with anxiety the perceived worries and pain are real, and I want to be there for her. However, it always seems like when we go out, some sort of injury or illness occurs that needs to be dealt with. I want to keep going to social events and inviting her to places, but it’s getting frustrating to always prioritize and prepare for her concerns. Plus I don’t want her to feel bad about being in pain. Is there anything I can do about setting boundaries, or do I keep dealing with things the way I have been—emergency first aid kits and all?
—Constantly in Sickness