Tell them that. I don't think you should feel responsible for anyone's happiness but your own. But I can sure see why this would be worrisome.
ETA: I did not see this quote the first time through:
"The biggest drawback is not being able to shed these handcuffs of debt--being shackled for another 3-5 years."
If I felt that way, that I was shackled with handcuffs of debt, I would do everything possible to get out of that situation. So in my case, I would say I would not do it, because getting out of debt is so important to my mental health. But that is something only the individual can decide--how she feels about debt. But these words do not sound happy and okay with debt, so that's something to consider.