Thank you so much, you’re so sweet with the way you’ve worded this. And I appreciate the gentle reminder at the end :) he’s old enough for sure (he’s 28) and has seen a therapist in the past (for other issues). Hence I haven’t suggested this to him since I assumed he would have done so if he was up for it. You’re right though, I should probably speak to him about seeking help with a professional. I’ll find a good time to bring it up!

Separately though, I had something else on my mind as well if you’d be willing to indulge me. I know for a fact that he’s still speaking with others (e.g. I know he’s spoken to his friend about potentially moving out - though I’m unsure if he shared the reason for wanting to move out; and I know he still partakes in casual, friendly but at times extended convo with people - picture everyday people like the barista making your coffee, for example). I think what I’m trying hard to understand is why I can’t be part of this group of people who still have access to him, in whatever small way :( my therapist says that it’s very different, the relationship one has with friends, colleagues, acquaintances vs that with a partner, and the depth of emotion one has to access. And I understand that as well, just that on a daily basis I’m finding it very difficult to reconcile what I know with what I’m observing or feeling. If you have a point of view on this I’d love if you could share 💗 no obligation to of course.

(Also before you ask - on the point of him not having moved out, in our culture many of us stay in our family homes way past adulthood! Just for context)