„17F and 18M, together for almost a year, I feel trapped in the relationship - is this normal?"
Me (17F) and my boyfriend (18M) have been together for almost 1 year. It's starting to feel like we're together because we've gotten used to it, and I've realized I've let a lot of things slide that I normally wouldn't tolerate.
He's a very sweet guy who struggles with mental health issues, but he refuses to see a professional.
He tends to lock up and avoid talking about deeper feelings, and sometimes when he's upset he gives me the silent treatment.
I really love him. He was my best friend for 3 years before we started dating, and now I feel too committed to leave, especially since we go to the same school and will for at least another 2 years.
I also struggle with communication and sometimes ignore issues when he gets jealous or doesn't like me talking to certain people.
But I know I'd be pretty depressed if I left him, and I think he would be too. At the same time, I don't think this is what I want to settle for. We've talked about breaking up before, and it often feels like neither of us stands our ground when something really matters.
It often feels like we're more like friends with benefits who give each other the silent treatment than a healthy couple with clear boundaries and communication.
I still love him, but I don't know what I should do.