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Boyfriend Suffering With Ptsd, Saving Our Relationship.

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Redwish.

Bronze Member
I recently started dating my boyfriend, who was released from war due to to TBI. He was there for six years. I didn't know him when he was over there.

I'm hoping there's someone out there who can help me, he's suffering bad with ptsd/depression. He thinks he's a horrible bad person, and keep rethinking everything in his life from work to school to me. I'm trying to stay very supportive, but at the same time I don't know how.

How can I keep this relationship strong, and let him know we can get through this together.
 
Don't try to save him or fix him, or even try to save the relationship. My number one recommendation for most supporters is to find support for yourself. That is the best way you can help him.

This forum, a therapist, support groups, friends - the more support you can have around you, the more likely you will be able to really be there for him. This is not because there is anything wrong with you, but because this is going to be a tough road, and you will need all the support you can get.

This may be a far fetched idea - but I have a hunch you are feeling concerned he may want to end the relationship with you. Working on any abandonment fears you have of your own would be a really good idea. Not because there is something wrong with you, but because it might be too much for him to be in a relationship right now and/or he may do that - and it's a good idea to have some support if that does happen.

His negative self image is the message of trauma. Life and death trauma. It takes a lot of time and a lot of patient presence to even begin to counter the weight of the serious on-going trauma he has been through. Try to remember his actions may be about you, and yet they also are not entirely about you. They may be more about the invisible wounds of war.

For many people, it gets worse before it gets better. He may have more symptoms if you try to get emotionally closer with him before he is ready. If he asks for space, honor the request.

You will likely have to endure him thinking he is a horrible person for awhile. It is highly unlikely you can convince him through words that you will be there for him. Instead, just be there for him.

And be there for yourself. Honor your own relational needs. Communicate to him gently but clearly and directly what your needs are in the relationship. Don't make it all about him and his needs. Respect him enough to tell him what you need/want in the relationship too.
 
I've been with my boyfriend for almost 2 years. He has struggled with PTSD for over 25 years and he has good days and bad days, lately they've been mostly bad. Every day, I learn something new about PTSD, about him and about myself. In the beginning, I had the same attitude that you do..."we" will get through this together. In my case, that isn't usually the way it goes. He isolates and I'm on the other side of the wall he's built around himself so there is no we. As with all relationships, one person can't hold the relationship together. Your boyfriends PTSD may be much less severe, I certainly hope so. He may be able to let you in and form a strong bond with you but don't be alarmed or surprised if he cannot. My best advice to you is find support for yourself so you understand what you're dealing with and how to take care of yourself in the process of being there for him. It's not an easy road and you may find that it's not the right road for you. Be true to yourself first and foremost and you'll be ok. Best of luck to you both.
 
I recently started dating my boyfriend, who was released from war due to to TBI. He was there for six y...
I am like your partner. I too am suffering the same as him. The best advice I can give you is the way my partner treats me. All he does is lend an ear, support, a hug, kindness, listens and tries to offer comfort. Sometimes he reads up on PTSD, depression and anxiety. He observes if you like. You don't have to really do anything if I am honest, being there is enough for anyone going through emotional, psychological and bodily pain. That is all we want is someone who cares, who tries to understand and show some form of compassion. No, it's not easy and it can take a lot out the both of you.

Always look after yourself though first, because you would be no use to anyone if you are exhausted and drained. You too are human and have limits. . . and don't try to understand if you don't. Be honest. . .allow him to explain in the best way he can about how he feels (that is if he wants to)
When my partner asks me questions, he shows he cares and is interested and brings us closer. Again, we are all different, but you made the start coming here and asking about it already. That shows you care about him and you are willing to learn and understand what he is going through.
But always. . . make sure you are okay first. Your needs have to be met too!!!!
 
I feel your pain, I cannot seem to do anything right for my partner. He is currently away on therapy and I have left him to that, he has told me that I haven't been in contact enough.

I feel desperate because I want to support him but currently feel that our relationship is adding to the stress of PTSD.
 
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