Hi smol one,
Welcome to the forums and thank you for your post. I hope that you'll find some support in these forums.
Gosh, this is a really tricky one. I can relate very much; when I'm depressed often I just need a hug, where as my partner too prefers space and distance.
One thing that I've learned through this is that it's possible to both give him space as well as honouring your own feelings and having them met. What is it that you need to feel more secure about your relationship during this time? What does your partner need in terms of space and how much space?
Perhaps you could try setting up some guidelines beforehand - maybe that looks like taking a few days without contact and then him texting you, or a call once a week. The feeling of being 'pushed away' can often happen when things are really unexpected and random but knowing that that structure is there can help remind you both that you are in this together, even if you both cope very differently. {It's also so important to have this conversation when you are both in a good headspace}
With coping, I'm kind of thinking of self-care, in finding time and space for just you. Are there things that you really enjoy, where you can lose track of time? Journalling is one for me and I also like gaming - both of those are just little things that I enjoy and help me cope that I can do alone. Other options might be getting out of the house- usually I would suggest lunch/coffee with friends but in this time perhaps just a walk or a phone call! Whatever you choose, just finding little ways to care for you and allow yourself to have all of those fears and feelings.
I hope this helps
rt
