Hi!

[Jozza]

Thanks for giving me the opportunity to touch base with others who might be in the same or similar situation. My fiancé of 17 years is struggling with depression and I understand depression and anxiety as I also suffer from it. What I’m finding hard is how can I support him when I’m struggling also. I don’t feel as as bad as he is so I am definitely stronger mentally than him but I want to help him without it effecting me too much. We have a 15 month old son who is very energetic and is the world to both of us. I feel we are also so devoted to him we are loosing us as a couple. How have other be able to balance their relationship/connection as a couple as well as being parents? Advice needed.

[white knight]

Hi, welcome

After this virus is over, maybe it’s time to schedule your time together in a better way.

It isn’t easy but time together with your child minded is mandatory for couples. Often that merely means a night out followed by a b&b then home again. Once my ex wife and I did just that, dropped our young ones off at an auntie’s and had a meal at Mt Dandenong. When we returned to our cottage we ran a spa and- snow began to fall outside. An open fire. So memorable.

You can spice it up with a surprise location or a gift. It can be regular or spontaneous. eg one day my secret day included a visit to see fairy penguins arrive on a beach then seafood night at a pub followed by dancing.

I hope you find your happiness

TonyWK

[Helen72]

Hi Jozza,

Like Tony said, you should schedule some couple time. Anyone needs some 'adult' time but you both sound like you especially need it.

Maybe now he's sort of toddler stage, his sleeping is a bit more predictable and you can pick a time and choose something to do together?

Helen