I am taking a huge leap .. any possibility of combat related PTSD? If so, you are likely in for a lifetime (with him) of difficulty. If he suffers from that, it CAN be a monster much greater than that of traditional major depression. If so, be sure you know what you are getting into.

You cant help him, he has to help himself. Just be supportive, listen and understand. Be really careful he doesnt drag you down with him, it takes a strong person to cope with someone who suffers with depression.

He has not yet been in battle. He is a data Marine mostly. Both he and I suffer from Depression and Anxiety. I've been on meds for a while, but he has never been. We were both beaten down in every way possible. I've been learning to live the past two years very slowly, but surely. He, on the other hand, has not learned to cope/live/exc.

He says he has already let me in more than anyone else because I understand and am so caring, but he has tried to run twice already. He comes back when I ask and explain how I understand what it is like to "x-y-z."

I don't know what else to do.

a marine, not in combat ? o.O



just be available to talk.

He is, of course, trained to go into combat; however, he is what is called a "data marine." I try to make myself as available as possible, but it can be hard seeing as we can only see each other once per week.

all kinds of people 'hook up'. Both depressed, one depressed, one PTSD, one schizophrenic, one physically challenged, both physically challenged, one alcoholic, both alcoholic, ...

All I can say is be yourself and see him realistically. Determine what you are willing to deal with. PREdetermine what a close relationship will involve/require, .. and follow your heart.

Thank you, everyone, for your advice.

If he is willing to work on his issues, which he says he is, then I will be with him the entire way. I just don't know a way other than listening to help him....if there is anything else I can do.

Listen and learn .. indeed.

All you can do is love him and let him know that. Be kind and gentle to him, be yourself. He will appreciate that, I'm sure. Hopefully he will come around and work things out for himself too. I wish you both the best.

You sound wonderful good luck




oh and do you have any older sisters that think as you do? :-)

Thank you.

Hahaha, and NO. I am the only person in my family with this mindset, I'm sorry to say. I wish more people outside of this community were more understanding.