AITA for telling my friend that she needs a life of her own and she has to stop leeching off of mine?

A young woman’s phone buzzes in a cozy coffee shop, revealing a text that ignites her fury. Her long-time friend, always shadowing her every move, has flirted with the guy she’s dating. For this 25-year-old, it’s the breaking point in a friendship that feels like a one-sided obsession.

This Reddit tale of blurred boundaries unfolds with raw emotion, as the OP confronts her friend’s invasive habits—copying hobbies, crashing family events, and now meddling in her love life. Was her sharp response justified? Let’s dive in.

‘AITA for telling my friend that she needs a life of her own and she has to stop leeching off of mine?’

This story screams boundary violation, like a neighbor borrowing your lawnmower and keeping it. The OP’s friend isn’t just inspired—she’s trying to become her. Dr. Lindsay Bira, a clinical psychologist, notes, “Healthy friendships thrive on mutual respect and space for individuality, not competition or imitation.” The friend’s mimicry likely stems from insecurity, but flirting with the OP’s love interest crosses into betrayal.

This reflects a broader issue: toxic friendships. Studies suggest most adults encounter a friend who oversteps boundaries, often due to low self-esteem or identity struggles. The OP’s delay in confronting her friend is common—nobody wants to torch a long-term bond.

Her eventual stand, though harsh, was needed. Moving forward, she could set clear limits, like sharing less about her life, or distance herself if the behavior persists.

Here’s what the community had to contribute:

Reddit’s crew brought the heat, serving opinions spicier than a chili cook-off. Here’s what they had to say about this boundary-busting friend.

$FishScrumptious − NTA Yes, you \*could\* have said something sooner. But this is obviously inappropriate behavior, and you have good reason to suspect she has known that all along and isn't a hopelessly oblivious amoeba.$

These Reddit takes are fiery, but do they nail the truth? Is this friend a harmless copycat or a full-on identity thief? The reality’s messy, but one thing’s clear: friendships shouldn’t feel like a takeover.

This drama begs the question: when does a friend’s admiration become obsession? The OP’s bold move reclaimed her space, but it stirred up a storm. Have you ever had to confront a friend who got too close? What would you do in this mess? Share your thoughts below!