ok... what are the first signs of being messed around?

I have had that on my forehead for awhile now...lol Still I wouldn't stop helping others regardless, I am just more aware and have actually learned to not be available as much or just say no I can't at this time. One of the signs that I know is like someone said, the only reason they call is they want something or need something or need advice, etc. Another is they have no consideration in how you feel at all. They are in that ME mode and nothing else matters to them. They get angry when you can't just drop everything your doing to help THEM..

When the person only calls you or contacts you when they need something, and when you try to contact them for anything they wouldn't talk to you - you're definitely getting used! I think it's important to note that when you feel like you're not getting anything out of the relationship - and you feel that you're giving a lot in order to keep the relationship alive - then you need to assess the relationship and its value to you. Good luck. And stop being a "tool." =P