Hi,

My boyfriend is suffering severe depression. He's in his early 20's and we've been together for about a year and a half.
I've joined this site to ask for help, because I'm losing hope and I just don't know how to help him.
He has always suffered with insomnia and is very anxious but in the last 2 weeks has become severely depressed. He has told me he doesn't know how he feels, he doesn't think I love or want him anymore, he can't eat or sleep and is vomiting on a daily basis.
I've told him I love him dearly and will always be here to help, but he's just shut down. He's told me he can't handle a relationship and has almost completely shut me out. He's returned all my belongings and is barely responsive.
I managed to persuade him to go for a drive with me, where he explained how confused he is and that he doesn't want me to hang on to him or wait for him to feel better, he wants me to 'move on' and find someone who can 'treat me right'.

I know he loves me dearly and that at the moment depression has taken over. Just a few weeks ago we were discussing living together and Christmas - which I'm worried I'll now spend without him.

I've tried to talk to friends, but as they've had little or no experience with depression they're quite negative. Saying that he just doesn't love me anymore and I should accept it, regardless of his emotions no man should leave their partner because they feel bad, he's still a man so should act like one etc etc.

I want to help so much and be with him but I'm losing sight. It's so hard knowing he's alone - I'm worried I'll lose him completely and it's utterly heartbreaking.
I just want some help and advice from anyone that's suffered depression or been in my situation.

Thank you xx