Thank you Open Eyes for your support.
This evening my husband and I talked more about how to deal with the toxic people at his work, and also brainstormed ideas to look for new clients. It's a start, so I'm glad about that.
I think you are right that he was feeling defeated, and retreated to the tv. I didn't sleep much that night, either. He is finally starting to vent to me, which seems like a good sign.
My husband is very capable and skilled, but has been a people -pleaser (so am I, actually). That night I got so depressed it was like someone had squashed me. Today is better, thankfully. I am a little more hopeful.
Thank you for listening --that means a lot!