Hello all,
I work at a small Dr's office, with about 10 people working in a small area. It produces alot of anxiety to be in such tight quarters. One person talks all day, I mean literally all day, about nothing work-related and her voice is so loud. She asks such personal questions and I am really uncomfortable sharing my personal information, especially when everyone in the office can hear her. I'm not sure how to handle it.
I have been in this situation with a work colleague, not in such a small space, but 3 or 4 of us. I rehearsed for a few days as I knew I was going to be asked questions at any time.
I just said to her, 'Actually, I'm a really private person, so I don't like answering personal questions.' I did not expect such a lovely response from her. She apologised and respected that from me.
Of course, I knew she liked to gossip, but that didn't bother me. We got on OK for the decade we crossed paths at work. And she never crossed that line again.
Be absorbed in your work and try and shut her out. If she starts doing it again just say you are too busy to talk right now. Do it enough times and she should get the hint.
If not then more direct action like you are nosy or turn it round on her and say you will answer if she will. Put her on the spot for a change and see how she likes it.
Phoenix's suggestion is good too and another possibility.
Great answers and I thank you for responding. I do need to work on my responses and not taking her so seriously. She puts all of her personal business out there, so everyone in the office knows her story. That's fine if she wants to do that, but why does she think everyone needs to share their personal life with her, or should I say with the whole office. It's embarrassing to be asked about your personal like when everyone has their ears open. Responding to your feedback is very helpful as it is giving me a chance to get my feelings out about this situation and to also think about how I can work towards a resolution. Thank you!
Good. Glad my suggestions were helpful. Just remember you haven't go to do anything other people want you to do as you are your own person.
I have worked in offices all my life and experienced a lot of shite there too. You belong to yourself and no one else.
I once had to change desks with a very young snotty girl who thought she was better than me. She started scrubbing my old desk making remarks like how dirty it was.
So I did the same but took it up a notch. 
She shut up immediately but I made sure to keep scrubbing her desk for a bit longer than she did mine.....
sorry to hear about you’re anxious thoughts l deep understanding needed can understand and relate too you’re self esteem l would try to relax take deep breaths to calm do the sympathetic nervous set you’re mind on higher purposeful outcomes explain that although you value friendship you need space for any negative emotive so would try to
Explain in a positive way with that person that you are understanding point but personal preference as to be that kept safe and switch the conversation to another topic which is more with youre perspective hope you find some relativity in the matter
out of curiosity why have you asked.
Feeling so alone at work. 
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