How can I deal with my boyfriend that randomly lapses into “flat affect”?
Well, I’m not a psychologist/psychiatrist, but I’ve worked in the mental health field for about 6 years, so I hope I can be of some help. First of all, I recommend your boyfriend seek some counseling for his issues, medicated or not. Many people with mental health problems are in denial and become defensive when told to get help. So while you cannot force him to do so, you can make the suggestion, and just let him know that you’re there for him if/when he needs you. Now, about the being left alone part, I think that you should give him his space during those times; but if you feel that he’d be of any danger to himself or others, just try to keep an eye on him or check in with him periodically to make sure he’s safe. I know it’s hard and frustrating, but I don’t really think there is anything you can do besides offering to be there for him and allowing him space while he’s “out of it.” I know that when I’m working with patients that are aggitated or irritated, I just, VERY CAMLY, ask if
