I think you know that you deserve more than to stay with someone just to avoid 'abandoning' him. As hard as it is to let go, you can't stay with someone because you feel sorry for them... even if you love them a lot... you should be getting something out of this too. Easier said than done, I know. My long term (5 yrs) bf and I just broke up and even though it was his idea because he has a lot of issues to work through, I feel sorry for him because I've always been the one who helps him and it's obvious he's still hoping I'll be around to do that.. but I cannot do that. It would be unfair to me. It's hard to let go and watch him struggle on his own. I'm always afraid he won't be able to do it without me but I pray so hard that he finds a way.. because I need to find my OWN happiness and stop worrying about his. And you should do the same. I don't know if your boyfriend has ever or would ever talk to someone about his issues, but maybe you not being around will push him into something like that. You never know what's going to happen in the future. Good luck :) I hope you find the answers you are looking for.
Hi cjg306,
I am so sorry about what you are going through.