AIBU skint friends

[jaffacakesarebiscuitsx]

I'm usually uncomfortable when a friend mentions their lack of money during a conversation. I do not lend money as a habit due to bad past experiences and this in turn makes me feel awkward when lack of money and money issues are brought up.
The only options (that I don't like either) could be that I see that I can do is:
• Giving her some advice, but it feels like condescending or patronizing. I'm not in her shoes, so advice that would apply to my life would be easy talk.
• Changing topic, but it feels like I don't care and maybe rude.
• Remaining silent, and waiting her to say something else, that seems awkward.

Does anyone know what the social correct thing to do is please? It's hard as well as it's not always mentioned in person sometimes via text and I just sit not knowing what to really reply.

@NoSquirrels

If you’re also skint, you need to say the “yes, it’s shit, isn’t it?” line and if need be follow up with “I’m skint too - just need to keep focusing on keeping in my budget” or whatever.

You’re under no obligation to solve your friend’s money issues and actually, if they make you feel uncomfortable about it it is perfectly OK to tell them so. “Friend, I’m sorry but I can’t help, I’m skint too and it makes me feel bad when you ask”.

This ^^ and every other PP who has said similar.

It sounds like your friend is always fishing for handouts of free food/ stuff and cash from you and it's uncomfortable and unfair.

Stop playing this game with her, please listen to other posters. Her poor money management isn't yours to solve. Imagine that your shoulders are coated in Teflon and let her hints at asking for money slide off them.

If she asks outright then say "sorry I can't help you, I struggling too and have to work out my own budget and priorities, you have to work out same for yourself" . She's an adult and not YOUR child.