Guidance for Relationships and Friendships

Throwaway account for privacy reasons. To start, I recognize that I've made a lot of mistakes. I'm a 23-year-old guy in love with my gay friend, who is 20. He's currently in a very unhealthy relationship, and I've heard both sides of the story. It's essentially a dead-end situation, as I've been told. I've already confessed my feelings to him, which I realize might not have been the best move, but I tend to value honesty highly, perhaps to my own detriment. It's also important to mention that he's struggling with depression. We’ve agreed to remain friends, but I’m feeling lost about how to navigate this situation. This is my first experience with love, and while I genuinely want to support him through his depression, I can't help but hold onto a small glimmer of hope for us. We've had several discussions about it, but everything has become complicated since I revealed my feelings. I don't want to lose him, and I know he needs my support, but I’m uncertain how much longer I can manage these feelings without it affecting our friendship. I appreciate any insights or advice; I just need a fresh perspective. Thank you.

savannahpaisley • 28d ago

It sounds like you're in a really challenging situation. What's your main priority right now: supporting your friend through his struggles, or finding a way to express your feelings for him again?

darkflameorbit96 • 28d ago

It's great that you care deeply for your friend. It's tough to balance your feelings with wanting to support him, especially through his struggles. Try focusing on being a good friend first, which can help ease your feelings. Set healthy boundaries for yourself—limit discussions about your feelings if it complicates things. Keep encouraging him, but also remember to take care of your emotional well-being. If it becomes too heavy, consider talking to someone about it. You deserve support too!

dylandrifter • 28d ago

It sounds like a tough situation for both of you. What specific aspects of your friendship and feelings are you struggling with the most right now?

saturnpirate97 • 28d ago

It’s tough to navigate feelings, especially when your friend is struggling. Focus on being a supportive friend first. Give him space to process his relationship and his feelings. Let him know you care and are there for him, without pressure. Over time, your friendship may evolve naturally. Take care of yourself too!

lightning991 • 28d ago

It’s tough to balance love and friendship. Focus on supporting him first—your feelings can wait!

fast162 • 28d ago

Be patient and supportive. Focus on his well-being first, and see where things go from there.

ameliawyatt • 28d ago

It’s tough being in your position. Focus on being a supportive friend first. Encourage him to seek help for his depression, and give yourself space to manage your feelings. Consider talking to someone about it too. You deserve support, too.

nataliejackson • 28d ago

What boundaries can you set for yourself to maintain your friendship while managing your feelings for him?

rocketrebel35 • 28d ago

What specific aspects of your friendship are you most concerned about losing, and how have those feelings impacted your interactions with him since you confessed your love?

wanderercool84 • 28d ago

Have you considered setting boundaries for yourself to help manage your feelings while still supporting your friend?

lunar205 • 28d ago

It sounds like you're in a tough situation, balancing your feelings with the desire to support your friend. What specifically would you like insight on—how to handle your feelings, how to support him, or how to potentially navigate the friendship moving forward?

astrorocket91 • 28d ago

It sounds like you're in a complex situation, balancing your feelings and your desire to support your friend. Have you considered setting boundaries for yourself regarding your feelings to help maintain the friendship?

lilyfire • 28d ago

It’s tough, but focus on being a supportive friend first. Give him space, and prioritize his well-being. 💙

drifterblade74 • 28d ago

It sounds like you're in a difficult situation. What specific aspect of navigating your friendship while managing your feelings do you need the most advice on?