a close friend (22M) of 3 years, who I (18f) have been seeing romantically for 3 months, is currently going through a depressive episode. he’s had many drawbacks in his life and yesterday he finally had the last straw. he was silent all day and explained to me that he needed his space. i was very worried about him, so i decided to call him. he didn’t answer. he then began to tell me to look for other people. that he likes me very much, but he doesn’t want to drag me down with his mental health issues. i am his friend before his lover, so i am deciding to stay beside him as i always have for the last 3 years. i struggle from depression as well, so i am able to understand how he’s feeling. i just wish he knew how much i love him. how much i enjoy his presence. how much i wish to see him smile. honestly im just ranting right now….as a friend i am prepared to be by his side. but as a lover i am heartbroken because it seems like he’s done with us forever. i don’t blame him if he is, depression is a bitch.