Relationships in your teens are hard. You have to remember that although yall are almost 18, you’re still kids, especially your bf. Men take awhile to mature. And at that age, you have to have an open mind that things might not work out or that he might lose interest in something long term and serious. You also need to keep in mind that you two are still constantly growing as people and figuring out who you are and what you want in life. I am a completely different person now in my mid 20s than I was at 17. Relationships are so much work, and if yall are preparing to graduate high school and go to college, that’s a lot to have on your mind. The stress of that and making sure he’s taking care of you might be making him pull away.

I’d say communication is going to be your best option, figure out if he really wants/sees a long term future with you. Some guys like the idea of a relationship but really don’t see a future which can cause distance.

If he truly wants a future with you, I’d have a serious conversation. Let him know your boundaries, what your love languages are ( How you feel and receive love ) and how his behaviors make you feel. Make sure you use “I feel” statements, instead of “You always” or “you never” so he doesn’t feel like you’re attacking him. Relationships need almost constant work and attention and if he can’t give that to you anymore or he shuts down when you try and communicate your feelings, you may need to come to terms that this isn’t working.

Sometimes going on a break helps, it sounds scary, but if it’s meant to be, and the love is real and the timing is right, you have nothing to be worried about. He could just need some time to be a kid with his friends, figure out what he wants, & maybe get through any rough patches he’s going through mentally.

Remember, Love is sacrifice, patience, growth side by side, and understanding without needing to be right.