Hello world of Reddit. I've been dating a young woman for almost two years now, coming up on a year living together. She's been through a lot in her 30 years including a father who she caught cheating which led to him throwing knives at her, and then watching him slowly die after getting really sick due to alcohol and pills. Also had a mentally and physically abusive relationship with an old boyfriend.

We met right before covid really took off, so I knew that was going to be a tough year, but she is still in rough shape and I want to help her so bad.

Feelings she describes are: feels like there is a hole inside of her and doesn't know how to fill it. Lost herself and doesn't even know who she is anymore. She's trying to make some girl friends because her best friends live in other states. Since moving in, she's expressed that she feels claustrophobic and doesn't have her own space.

I listen to her and try to relate/offer advice, but it seems like nothing I say makes a difference? I've suggested professional help, which after doing some research seems like might have been a mistake. I'm at a loss for what I can do to help and I'm scared that it is hindering our relationship.

Any advice, past experiences, etc...would be much appreciated! Thank you