I was seeing a wonderful guy for a few weeks and in the course found out he was bipolar (medicated but still slept little, smoked and drank daily), self-injured (as an adult--just a few months ago), former very serious drug addict, tried killing himself several times and had been hospitalized once for several months and over 15 times for a day or so. Also has panic attacks and our relationship, at least on his end, was very serious very, very quickly to the point that it was unnerving. I never experienced anything negative with him (only in the course of a few weeks) but I was overwhelmed and panicky from the start thinking something wasn't right and anticipating emotional blackmail at the prospect of any relationship stress. Thinking about that, all of the sudden the aggregate caught up with me and I realized I couldn't cope with all of these difficulties and trying to do so would be unfair to both of us. The saddest part was despite his willingness to accomodate my anxiety, there was nothing he could do because it was my issue, not his. So I ended things rather abruptly and stated we should end contact. Several weeks later, I feel like I overreacted; he didn't react horribly at all, only sad. He didn't do anything rash toward me, as for himself, I don't know, but do know he's alive and well and I believe dating someone else now. I know I can't have a romantic relationship with him but I should've ended things better. Is it worth re-opening that door? I'm still afraid if he does care any longer (which is unlikey) he may want to try a relationship then i'd have to end things again. Best to leave well enough alone? I've really been distraught over this and could use any sensitive advice. Needless to say it's been a learning experience for me and I am certainly better to have known him but don't think I conveyed that.
Any words of wisdom? Thank you all for the postings; i've learned a great deal from this site and am more sensitive and reasonable for having found it (although maybe too late).