The same goes for companionship. Why does it need to be a "real" person, or for that matter, why can't people who are content being alone not do as they please without criticism or "help" from others? Just because someone discusses something doesn't mean they want you to "fix" their "problems". I have encountered people who refuse to talk about their private life because they don't want others to interfere, which makes for an uncomfortable situation when friends and family go prying. The easiest way to know if people want your assistance is if they plainly ask for it. If that isn't enough, maybe asking will be enough for both parties, but just let it go if they tell you they are happy with how things are going.