My brother wants to borrow $5,000 from me. I feel uncomfortable to lend that amount of money, but feel bad not to help since he’s my brother. What should I do?

So, my brother makes more money than I do. He has his own business that has its ups and downs (like most businesses). He messaged me that he’s struggling a lot with debt. He currently lives with his girlfriend (who makes about 100k a year) and his two kids. He has a lot on his plate and owes a lot of money in general. He has to pay child support and he’s divorced. It’s just a lot and I feel bad for him.

He had mentioned to me a month ago he needed my help and would let me know eventually how much he needs. I said no problem let me know. I would be happy to give 1k freely. But nope it wasn’t 1k.

He said he needs 5k and he would try to pay me almost 1k monthly starting next month.

I feel bad because I do live with our parents and don’t have outstanding debt or bills to pay. I do pay off my credit card every month and I have student loans to pay off a month as well along with hospital debt. I have my own struggles but it’s not as much.

But 5k feels like way too much to ask for. And the thought of not getting back the money I worked hard for stings me a lot. If I made a lot of money and didn’t work as hard for it, sure, I would lend away. But I work so hard for my money..

Also I feel like giving him that would prevent me from making my own goals like buying my own car or house. Right now I just use my mom’s car and I live with my parents.

What should I do?