Hi all. A man I was dating for 6 weeks and shared a great connection with broke up with me saying he was in a depressive episode and didn’t know what he wanted 2 days after asking me to be exclusive with him. He did this by text, saying he was broken and didn’t want a relationship. I got angry and hurt and after I calmed down I tried to talk with him but he has shut me out. I’m worried about him but also want to respect his space and choices and not be a doormat. I sent an email apologizing for my angry words and explaining why and told him I respected his choice and had enjoyed the time we spent together. He thanked me for the email, said he was having a tough time at work and didn’t want to not be in contact. That was a week ago, he still has not explained why he did a total
180 from exclusive relationship to break up within 2 days. And by text which was not his style at all thus far. I’m totally confused and have not had any contact with him for the week.
I accept he doesn’t want a relationship with me but I am worried about him and how he feels about himself. So my question is is it better for him if I leave him alone since he knows how to find me if he wants to or would it mean anything or be helpful if I checked in and let him know I’m here if he needs me? I no longer feel the urgent need for answers but I am concerned that he is sinking into a very dark place, as that is how he described it. I do care for him even if it won’t work out for us. I have had episodes of depression and it feels good when people have reached out for me. However, I know men and women can feel differently about this and I do not want to further burden him or be misinterpreted as having no boundaries or chasing him. Any advice would be welcome and thank you.