I'm unsure whether I'm enabling my fiancé [29M] or simply not providing the right support.
I'm a 30-year-old woman engaged to my partner, who is 29. We've been together for seven years and engaged for two. We met in high school but didn't really connect until we rejoined in our early twenties. I love him deeply, but lately, I've been feeling drained by his negative attitude and outlook on life. We've both faced depression, anxiety, and tough life experiences that have really taken a toll on us. Last year was a turning point for me; I realized I didn't want to let past experiences define me or dictate my happiness. In retrospect, I see how we may have formed a trauma bond and have been feeding into each other's negativity over the years. I often feel like he relies on me for support—whether it’s helping with his resume, assisting with taxes, or managing his finances. I’ve stood by him through many ups and downs, trying my best to support him, including co-signing a car for him. Lately, though, he's been struggling more than usual. I empathize with his situation, but when I look at the big picture, he has a stable job, a home, and financial support from his dad. I understand that depression can keep someone feeling stuck even when things are generally okay. He often expresses feelings of worthlessness, claiming that nothing he does matters and that he'll never improve his situation. I’m really at a loss for what to do next. I know I sometimes come off as annoyed, which isn’t fair to him. I’m trying to figure out how to be a supportive partner while also taking care of myself. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. 🙏❤️