We've all been there. You're gearing up for some light small talk with your colleague and all of a sudden you're hearing intimate details about their latest break up or health issue.

Or maybe the trauma dumper is you. You've got a friend who's such a good listener and often realise you've spent a catch-up ranting about your issues ... and you've forgotten to ask them how they're going.

So, how can you break free from the cycle?