Communicating with my partner

rosiemay · ‎18-11-2017

Hi,

I'm a young women who has had anxiety and depression for 8 years now and I've kept it very private. I have had help in the past but I struggle with trusting people and opening up.

I have been with my current boyfriend for 2 and a half years and he is almost too good to be true if that's not too sappy. He is very loving and very caring and wants what's best for me but I still struggle with opening up to him about what I need and how he can help. I'm not even sure what to say. I don't want to ruin what I have but I'm so scared about inconveniencing people and asking for help.

Any suggestions?

Thanks

JackM · ‎18-11-2017

I have been in EXACTLY the same situation as you and I still haven't worked it out. I wish I could offer more but all I can offer is my best wishes that you will be able to resolve this situation.

Pixie15 · ‎19-11-2017

Hello rosiemay,

As JackM has already responded this does sound familiar both for myself and my partner who suffers depression. I think one of the hardest things is to see someone you care about suffer and not be able to do anything. I am just wondering if you know what you need. If your partner tries to do things to fix you he might just end up in the role of care taker instead of care giver which may not be pleasant for either of you. I do not have an easy answer. It is something to be muddled through as best you both can.

geoff · ‎19-11-2017

hi Rosiemay, it's never easy to talk to someone you love, because you may get the feeling that as soon as you do then they are going to leave you, but I wouldn't think that way, instead, think that you hope he will join you in doing everything he can to make you feel better.
Why don't you write down what's troubling you, this can be done on several pieces of paper and only hand him the minor details, then when you feel comfortable then give him page 2 and so on, you could ask him to with you to the doctors but take it at your own speed.
When you see the doctor then you could hand over the summary, this maybe a way for your b/friend to know what's been happening, again at your own speed. Geoff.