- Mind Hacker
- Posts
- 10 Signs Someone Is Using You
10 Signs Someone Is Using You
Because love isn't supposed to feel like a transaction
Faraz Ali
June 23, 2025
Sponsored by
"The saddest thing about betrayal is that it never comes from your enemies." — Unknown
We all want to believe the best in people. We crave connection, closeness, and the warmth of being needed. But sometimes, that very need is what blinds us to the cold truth: someone may be using us.
It doesn’t always come with warning signs. Sometimes it hides behind laughter, shared memories, and “I need you” texts. But if you pause, reflect, and read between the lines , the signs are there. Subtle, painful, and soul-draining.
Here are 10 signs that someone in your life may not truly care for you, they care for what you give.
Looking for unbiased, fact-based news? Join 1440 today.
Join over 4 million Americans who start their day with 1440 – your daily digest for unbiased, fact-centric news. From politics to sports, we cover it all by analyzing over 100 sources. Our concise, 5-minute read lands in your inbox each morning at no cost. Experience news without the noise; let 1440 help you make up your own mind. Sign up now and invite your friends and family to be part of the informed.
1. They Only Show Up When They Need Money
Their messages start with "Hey, I’ve been thinking of you…"
But somehow, it always ends with a request. A loan. A “favor.” You’re not a person to them , you're a walking ATM with feelings they don’t consider. If someone values your wallet more than your well-being, that's not friendship. That’s exploitation.
2. They Ignore You When They're With Others
Alone with you, they’re warm, sweet, and all smiles. But when their “cooler” friends are around? You become invisible. They laugh without you, talk over you, and act like you're a burden. People who truly value you never make you feel like a background character in their life.
3. They Come Around Only When They Need Something
Need help moving? A ride? Someone to vent to at 2 a.m.? Suddenly, you're their best friend. But when you need them? Silence. Relationships are supposed to be mutual, not one-sided services.
4. They Blame You for Their Mistakes
They mess up , but you’re the scapegoat. You're “too sensitive,” “always overreacting,” or “never supportive.” Somehow, everything circles back to your flaws. This manipulation is toxic. You’re not responsible for someone else's inability to own up to their actions.
5. They Never Apologize or Admit They're Wrong
You’ve apologized a hundred times. Them? Not once.
Even when they know they’re wrong, their pride comes first. They’d rather gaslight you than say two simple words: I’m sorry.
You deserve accountability , not arrogance.
6. They Downplay Your Achievements
You finally did it , graduated, got that job, started something new. But they brush it off. Make jokes. Shrug. Because deep down, your success threatens the control they think they have over you. Real friends celebrate your growth. Users feel insecure about it.
7. They Use Your Secrets Against You
You opened up. You trusted them. Then one day, your deepest wounds are casually thrown into an argument , or worse, shared with others. Anyone who weaponizes your vulnerability doesn’t deserve your trust.
8. They Disappear After Getting What They Want
One minute they’re pouring out love, the next , gone. No call. No check-in. Just silence.
Until the next time they need something. That’s not love. That’s convenience wrapped in affection.
9. They Say Things Like “You Owe Me” or “You’re My Only Hope”
They guilt-trip you with emotional blackmail. They twist kindness into obligation, making you feel like a terrible person if you say no. This isn't affection, it's manipulation dressed in desperation.
10. They Freely Use Your Resources Without Appreciation
Your car? They need it. Your home? A crash pad. Your energy? Constantly drained.
They never say thank you, never offer to help, they just expect. You’re not a resource. You’re a human being who deserves reciprocity.
Know Your Worth
You are not here to be used. You’re not someone’s fallback plan, emergency wallet, or emotional sponge. Being kind is beautiful. But being used is not kindness, it’s emotional self-harm. Recognize the difference. Let go of people who only show up with open hands and empty hearts. Choose the ones who show up when you’re empty, and pour into you, not out of you.
Reply