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Marriage stress

User Profile: toniight
toniight November 23rd, 2023

Hi everyone, happy Thanksgiving in the US. Thanksgiving is not so happy for me this year due to some stress with my husband. I tried to talk to him about his mental health, addiction, and the stress he feels from his job. It's hard for me to see him go through these things, both because I care for him and because of how it affects our relationship and home life. Unfortunately, when I brought up all of these things, he became very reactive and isn't talking to me now. I want him to get help for what he is going through and I want to be a support for him, but I feel like he isn't letting anyone in and is just hurting himself in the process. Has anyone been through something like this before?

I go to Al-Anon meetings and try to remember that his mental health is not my responsibility. It just hurts when the person I love most in the world is hurting and not doing anything about it.

Much love to all.

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User Profile: glisteningLight2506
glisteningLight2506 November 23rd, 2023

@toniight Hello, and happy Thanksgiving to you as well. I'm sorry to hear that you're going through such a challenging time with your husband. It's evident that you care deeply for him and want to support him.


It's not uncommon for loved ones to struggle with how to approach someone who is facing mental health challenges and addiction. It's positive that you attend Al-Anon meetings and recognize the importance of maintaining your own well-being.

If your husband is not open to talking about these issues right now, you might consider expressing your concern and love for him in a non-confrontational way. Let him know that you're there to support him and that you care about his well-being. Encourage him to consider seeking professional help or talking to someone he trusts.

Remember, you can't control his actions or decisions, but you can continue to be a source of support. Taking care of yourself is crucial, and it's okay to seek guidance from support groups and professionals as you navigate through this difficult time.

If you haven't already, you might also consider seeking individual therapy or counseling for yourself to help you cope with the challenges you're facing and to gain additional tools for navigating these difficult conversations.

Wishing you strength and support as you work through these challenges. Much love to you as well.
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