Hi...
I'm fairly new to the forum, but have posted some Chronic Pain threads...
My boyfriend and I were in a very serious car accident over a year and a half ago.
I seem to have taken physical pain from the experience, while he is struggling emotionally.
Because I am trying to stay focused on my own path to health (physical, emotional and otherwise) I've been uncertain how to 'manage' our relationship.
Not to mention it's long distance... (yes, it gets even more complicated than that...)
Anyway, long story short... He's very aware that he needs to get help, but seems unable to take that first step. Because it holds OUR future back, I become frustrated, and very anxious. Sometimes I feel it's best to pull myself out of the relationship, in order for him to completely focus on JUST himself.. and his own needs... but at other times, I really feel like I can help him.
It's tough. Very tough.
I'm looking for advice/opinions/thoughts.. on how to best support him.
Is it better to sit back, let go, be supportive, understanding, and patient... and HOPE that one day he'll get professional help? (which may also mean not being in his life... as it is sometimes very painful/difficult to be in love with someone but not be *WITH* them)
Or is there something I can say/do/be that will push him in the right direction?
Please keep in mind that it has been many many months of him acknowledging the problem, but not doing even one thing to get better.....
I know this is just the basics, but I'm hoping for some discussion on the subject...
Thanks SO MUCH (in advance)!