Breakups and Divorces • fasttiger74 • 2d ago

The husband is experiencing uncertainty.

My husband and I have been married for five months, having been together for 8.5 years. Recently, I went on a five-week vacation to visit family. Just three days before my return, he called to say he wasn't looking forward to seeing me, enjoyed his time alone, and wanted a divorce. He expressed that the thought of being with the same woman for the rest of his life frightened him, and he missed the thrill of dating. During my absence, he spent a lot of time with three single friends who often boast about their freedom, open relationships, and casual encounters. Upon my return, after a grueling 30-hour trip and feeling extremely anxious about what awaited me, he told me I was like medicine to him and that he felt much better when I was around. He claimed our relationship was fantastic and that he couldn't find anyone else with whom he had the same connection. He wrestled with choosing between the excitement of pursuing other women and remaining in a loving marriage where he feels valued. He also confessed he had only slept with five people before me and felt he had missed out on experiences. Now nearing 36, he believes he has only a few good years ahead before hitting middle age. We sought couples therapy, where the therapist noted that if his feelings of doubt predominantly arose when I was away but diminished upon my return, this could be linked to unresolved childhood traumas. He had a tumultuous upbringing with unstable marriage examples and a lack of a nurturing environment. While it seems things have returned to some semblance of normal, and we continue to discuss these issues, I feel deeply hurt and inadequate. He insists it's his struggle and that I'm amazing. He apologized for suggesting divorce and recognized he needs to confront his feelings. He often refers to himself as the "patient" in this situation. Over the past three weeks, I've struggled to feel like myself and have lost my zest for life, apart from going to the gym. I make an effort to remain upbeat around him to show that things can be okay, but I feel extremely lost. He says he's committed to therapy because he wants to work on our marriage. We're also in the process of buying a house together in four weeks. I'm seeking advice on how to cope with the overwhelming sadness and hurt. While I understand that he is grappling with his own issues, I need to find a way to move forward and set these feelings aside. Has anyone experienced something similar? Is questioning one's relationship normal? Any insights would be greatly appreciated, as I feel very stuck in my emotions. In summary: My husband is struggling with the idea of committing to the same partner for life.


falconlightning65 • 2d ago
How can you prioritize your emotional well-being while supporting your husband's journey in therapy?