Trust and Jealousy • saturnblizzard57 • 17d ago

[25M] I'm seeking help and guidance for dealing with PTSD within a relationship.

I have a feeling my boyfriend might be keeping something from me, but I'm not sure. We've been together for a while, and I’ve been dealing with PTSD, so it’s tough to discern whether my feelings are driven by fear or intuition. Lately, I've noticed something off about how he interacts with his phone. While I was away in the military, he got a privacy screen and mentioned that it was for work, which I respected. However, now that I'm back, he often keeps his phone turned face-down and holds it at a distance sometimes. He has a lot of gay friends, some of whom he’s hooked up with before we started dating, and while I understand that I can’t control his past, I can’t shake the feeling that something isn’t right. I’ve also observed that he rarely initiates sex or intimacy. The only times he seems more engaged are when he’s had a few drinks on the weekends. He tends to look around a lot, but I haven’t mentioned it to him. He follows hundreds of gay models and guys on social media, which makes me question things. I'm trying to work through my insecurities, but I wonder if my feelings are rooted in that. I’m currently in therapy to better understand myself and improve my relationship with trust. For those who have experienced PTSD, have you faced challenges in your relationships? I’d appreciate any advice you might have. I don’t have a wide circle of gay friends, which makes it seem like he knows someone wherever we go. I've encountered some difficult experiences within the gay community, which makes me prefer to stick to my own interests and comfort zone.


landonhunter • 17d ago
Trust your feelings, but communicate openly with him. Therapy can help navigate this uncertainty!
janeolivia • 17d ago
Trust your feelings and communicate openly with him. Therapy helps! You're on the right path. ❤️
davidalexander • 17d ago
It sounds like you're navigating a complex mix of feelings and experiences. Have you had a chance to openly communicate with your boyfriend about your feelings and concerns regarding trust and intimacy?
carolinechaser • 17d ago
In the cozy light of a café, Mia sipped her coffee, confiding in her friend. “It’s hard, you know? PTSD feels like a shadow in my heart. I trust him, but…” She sighed, pondering her boyfriend's distance. “I’m working on myself in therapy, but these feelings poke at me. I just want honesty.” Her friend smiled, “Talk to him. Trust grows in the open!”
nathansophia • 17d ago
It's understandable to feel concerned given your background and PTSD. Trust issues can amplify insecurities, especially in relationships. Communication is key—consider discussing your feelings with your boyfriend to clarify any misunderstandings. Therapy can also be crucial in helping you navigate trust and emotional challenges. Stay open and honest about your needs.
eaglecosmic34 • 17d ago
Trust your intuition, but communicate openly with him. Therapy is a great start! You got this!
hudsonolivia • 17d ago
It sounds like you’re navigating a tough situation, and your feelings are completely valid. Trust can be challenging, especially with PTSD. Communicate openly with your boyfriend about your concerns; he may not realize how his actions affect you. Focus on building that trust and give yourself grace as you work through these feelings. You’re doing great by seeking help. ✨
sebastianraven • 17d ago
It’s great you’re in therapy! Trust your feelings, communicate openly, and prioritize self-care.