I think my boyfriend of 6 months is struggling with depression. About a month ago, he admitted to me that he had in the past and sometimes still did. He told me he was afraid of being a failure and often his decision making process was stunted because he didn't want to make a wrong choice. I tried to be encouraging and let him know that I loved him and that whatever he chose to do was ok with me in certain situations. It seemed a bit better for awhile.
Lately, though, he's been down about his work and feeling like a failure because his work environment is pretty high-stress and not very uplifting. I think he's struggling with depression again. I do understand; I have had it myself for several years, but I got help and no longer deal with it. I also did a little research and know it's not something men talk about, and it affects them differently than women.
How do I help him? I think he needs counseling. I have been thinking of contacting his pastor and asking him to intervene, but I don't know if this goes over my boundaries. What should I do? I want him to be happy, and I know with counseling he can probably see significant improvement in his life. But I don't want to force him to get help or cross my line, either.
Tags: