Mental Health • starhunterwanderer75 • 2d ago

I [F30] experienced a breakdown in front of my boyfriend [M30], and I'm unsure if I overstepped any boundaries.

I have PTSD and anxiety, which I managed to keep relatively under control after two years of therapy and lifestyle changes. I've encouraged my partner to seek help and find ways to stay healthy while I dealt with my issues, and for the most part, we've been navigating this together quite successfully. I truly want him to prioritize his own well-being. About four months ago, after I completed a marathon, I developed tinnitus within 24 hours. Since then, it’s progressively worsened, and living in a remote mountain area has made it difficult to see an ENT during the winter months. After months of only getting 3 to 4 hours of sleep at a time, combined with the constant ringing in my ears (along with a low hum), I reached my breaking point. I screamed in frustration, and my boyfriend even brought me a pillow to scream into. I found myself on the floor, pleading for the noise to stop, and I cried so hard I nearly fainted. I’m not sure if this is a normal reaction to prolonged sleep deprivation and tinnitus or if it’s linked to my PTSD and anxiety. Now that it’s the morning after, I feel embarrassed and anxious about my boyfriend's mental health. I worry that I crossed a line where my struggles shouldn't be so visible, and I often think I should distance myself so he can have a normal life without having to handle my issues, even though he has been incredibly supportive. I’m feeling lost and would appreciate some encouragement about my relationship, as well as advice from others who have faced similar challenges.


lucymila • 2d ago
It sounds like you had a really tough moment, and it's completely understandable given everything you're facing. Both PTSD and tinnitus can be incredibly overwhelming, especially when combined with sleep deprivation. Remember, it’s okay to be vulnerable; it can actually strengthen your relationship. Your boyfriend’s supportive response shows he cares deeply about you. Communicating openly about your feelings together can help ease your anxiety. You're not alone in this!