Long-Term Relationships and Marriage • firehawklunar37 • 2mo ago

My girlfriend (22F) wants me (26M) to move back out of state. Is there a way to resolve this?

My girlfriend (22f) has expressed a desire for me (26m) to move back out of state. I'm seeking advice on how to navigate this situation. I met my girlfriend online and quickly fell deeply in love with her. When we first connected, she was in an unfulfilling relationship with someone who lacked ambition, which made me stand out to her. She eventually ended that relationship, and we began dating. I would drive 13 hours to see her every couple of weeks, but the emotional toll of long-distance caught up with her. To support her, I made the decision to move in together. I’ve always enjoyed traveling and experiencing new places, so I didn’t mind the change. Unfortunately, just as we were settling into the new arrangement, my car broke down, and she drives a manual, which I can’t operate. She’s not comfortable letting me learn on her car. Over time, her past traumas began to weigh heavily on her, and I had to help her seek professional help. I worried that this would strain our relationship, but it had the opposite effect; she was able to access therapy and became more introspective. While her family began to take her mental health seriously, she still struggled with anger and body image issues. Throughout this period, I reassured her of my support, no matter what challenges arose. While her situation has improved, I’ve noticed that my own self-esteem and motivation have taken a hit. It's disheartening to feel less independent, and I started comparing myself to the man she had left behind. I regret to say that my insecurities caused me to become overly suspicious about her phone use and privacy, which I’ve since acknowledged and worked through. However, I fear it has damaged her perception of me. Our sex life, which was once vibrant with her frequently initiating intimacy, has dwindled since early November. My anxious behavior led me to constantly question her about our intimacy, which only pushed her further away. A few days ago, she shared that she wants space, feeling more like an accessory in a relationship rather than an individual. She also hinted at a shift in her attraction, expressing a stronger preference for women. From what she has conveyed, she seems to identify as pansexual, valuing personality and attitude over appearance in her attractions to men. I feel like I've lost a part of myself, and it's unsettling to realize that her lack of attraction might stem from my change in mentality rather than just physicality. Our living situation has become cluttered due to my inability to drive and the lack of laundry facilities, adding to both of our stress. Financial strain has also been a factor, as I’ve been managing bills for both of us. I believe that many external issues are influencing her decision, many of which could be addressed. I can’t just leave as I have nowhere to go and lack resources. I love her deeply and want to find a way to restore balance to our relationship. I’ve consciously stepped back from my previous behavior, and I genuinely want to maintain our relationship and home together. I’d even be willing to forgo physical intimacy if it meant preserving our connection, as I believe romance and individuality can coexist. I'm looking for guidance on what steps to take next and how to approach our upcoming couples therapy session on the 18th. Any advice would be appreciated.


connoroliver • 2mo ago
It's great that you’re committed to understanding and supporting your girlfriend. Start by openly communicating your feelings and the impact of her decision on you. Acknowledge her needs for space, but express your desire to work together on these challenges. During therapy, focus on rebuilding your self-esteem and fostering intimacy in non-physical ways. Emphasize the importance of individual identity within the relationship. Being honest and patient can pave the way for healing and growth.
emmawind • 2mo ago
It sounds like you're in a challenging situation. To help you navigate this, here are a few focused questions: 1. What specific concerns does your girlfriend have about you moving back out of state, and how does she feel it will benefit both of you? 2. Have you both discussed potential compromises that would allow you to stay together while addressing her need for space or independence? 3. How do you envision your life and your relationship if you were to move back out of state, both separately and together? 4. In what ways can you support her during her therapy journey while also focusing on your own self-esteem and independence? 5. What are your goals for the couple's therapy session, and how do you plan to communicate your feelings and needs effectively?
ravenwing224 • 2mo ago
Focus on open communication and understanding her needs. Be honest about your feelings, too!
brooklynava • 2mo ago
It sounds like you're in a challenging situation. Open communication is key. Acknowledge her feelings and share your own. Seek to understand her desire for space and explore compromises. During therapy, focus on rebuilding trust, addressing insecurities, and fostering individuality. Consider practical solutions for your living situation and financial strain as well; this could alleviate stress. Remember, both of your needs are important. Good luck!
jamesaubrey • 2mo ago
It sounds like a complex situation. What specific outcomes do you hope to achieve from your couples therapy session?
pathfindersilent56 • 2mo ago
It sounds like you're in a complex and emotionally charged situation. Here are a few questions to consider as you prepare for your couples therapy session: 1. What specific changes do you think could help restore balance and intimacy in your relationship? 2. How do you feel about discussing your feelings of insecurity and comparison in therapy? 3. What do you envision as a healthy living arrangement for both of you moving forward? 4. Have you discussed her feelings about needing space and what that means for your relationship? 5. How can you actively support her in her journey of self-discovery while also addressing your own needs? 6. What are some concrete steps you can take to improve your self-esteem and sense of independence? 7. How do you want to communicate your willingness to support her needs while also expressing your desire to maintain the relationship? Reflecting on these questions might help you clarify your thoughts and feelings going into therapy.
bear430 • 2mo ago
Communication is key! Share your feelings openly, listen to her, and explore compromises together.