Rose, thank you for the information! That is a wealth of info. I really appreciate your help here.

He's 32. He has a history of chronic mental illness, being in and out of hospitals and treatment. He has a history of drug and alcohol rehab too. He has harmed himself previously in a suicide attempt about two years ago. He was recently hospitalized for potential suicide, and a psych doc told him he is too mentally ill to work, though my ex seems to disagree.

I am concerned about his welfare when it gets cold here. That is scary to me that he may not have shelter. I have offered a bus ticket back home where he is from where it is warmer in the winter months. That offer will stand as long as it is needed.

His case worker has said he will get SSI next month, at least this is what he tells me. Perhaps they are pushing him through as an emergency case? I do not know. As it is, I haven't heard from him in two days. I think his phone isn't charged... at least I hope that's all it is.

And yes, I think he is wearing people out. At least his family is worn out... I did all I could to help him get on his feet, but he was not able to at the time. I do worry this will become a chronic problem, but he's applying for jobs even now.

Tisha, to answer your question, yes I am empathic, but I do sincerely love him. We have a real connection and a deep connection. It's practically a spiritual connection. We relate very well emotionally, and have a solid friendship. We started out as friends to begin with, supporting each other with our mental health and life issues. So this is not about saving him anymore or about being his savior (though when I first moved him here, it was about saving him). His problems are beyond my ability to help. He needs professional help - perhaps even a residential treatment program for dual diagnosis, but he tells me the wait list for him is 18 months since he is not a MA native.

All I can do now is keep my offer for a bus ticket home. His case worker will handle the rest. He is definitely intelligent and scrappy and seems to be surviving just fine, though I do worry right now since I haven't heard from him.....

I really appreciate everyone's input and comments here.... from the bottom of my heart, thank you all so much for helping me through this issue. It is scary, it is worrisome, and I am concerned that he won't be able to get out of this mess, as was pointed out. This could become a perpetual crisis. At the very least, if he goes home he could at least be warm.