How do I tell friends that I want to be left alone?

[user40816]

I have a lot going on right now, and I am the type of person who withdraws socially to deal with things alone rather than leaning on others.

I have a few friends who have messaged me over the last week that I've left unread. I don't want to have to disclose what's going on to them because some of the matters are related to my health, and also family circumstances on DP's side (they know DP and it's certainly not my place to say anything about his situation). I also, in the nicest way possible, don't have the energy or interest to take on their issues or make small talk about what their toddlers ate for lunch the other day and how amazing it is that they're starting to use cutlery.

I don't want to be rude and completely ignore them, but I also would like them to just leave me be while we get through the next however long (talking weeks for context). I'm sure there will be some who think I'm being completely unreasonable and don't deserve to have the friends, which is fine and I'm not going to try to justify how I feel any further.

How can I politely ask them to give me space in a way that is least offensive?

I think it’s fine, some will understand some won’t.
I’ve got a friend like this and mostly I worry about her and hope she’s ok. It would be good to send a short text explaining as complete radio silence is a bit difficult to take and whilst I understand I admit I’m a tiny bit hurt that I went through this massive thing over the last 6 months (separating from my DH and moving out with the kids) and she hasn’t checked in or popped round to the new place to see how I’m doing.
But it is what it is, it has made me see the friendship differently but mostly I’m just a bit sad about it.

Exactly this, it's an awful way to behave imo and really selfish. You are able to post on MN and read replies but can't message your friends who will be concerned about you? You can easily stay in touch by text even if you aren't up to meeting person. I wouldn't class anyone as a friend who did this as I doubt they'd be there for me when I needed it.

I have a very good friend who does this occasionally,due to issues that he's had going on his life. Like you,he tends to withdraw rather than lean on others. When this has happened,I've received a text from him along the lines of 'I'm having a bit of a meltdown at the moment so I'll be going offline for a while, possibly 3 weeks or so. Please forgive me if I don't respond to messages or calls. I'll message you when I'm sorted'.