My long-term boyfriend told me that my mental health has affected him and he just wants to be friends as though nothing more ever happened. This really hurts me. What should I do?

You're worth a boyfriend who supports you and cares for you, so maybe it's a good idea to be just friends and wait for true love.

Well, I guess I would take this on board and get therapy to help me either win him back (should he be prepared) or to at least help myself out in order to prevent this from happening again

Well, you can't really force him to stay with you. Tell him how you feel, but if he refuses to stay with you, then stay his friend. If it hurts too badly, then you need to find other friends, otherwise you two should be good friends.

It's sad, because mental health stigma can hurt and impact so many relationships. If you can, discuss this with him and share your feelings. I hope everything works out for you

Mental health can impact our loved ones, just as it does us. Many seem to think that because our illnesses are hidden in our minds, they wont cause a problem, and the illness wont affect them. Think of your mental health like cancer- its there and there really isnt much you can do about it, but you still need support, therefore you will surround yourself with those who support you. If someone told you they couldnt be with you because you have cancer, you wouldnt think highly of them, right? This is very similar.

I think you should tell him how much you appreciate his courage in coming to you, and thank him for his love thus far. I'd tell him you're seeking therapy from a professional, and actually do it. I'd tell him that hopefully you have an opportunity to show him the new woman you've become some day soon.

Talk to him, see why he feels that way and see if there’s anything you can do. And maybe being friends is best if he would just leave like that.

I believe we cannot force people to like us, to accept us the way we want. But surely, one day we will meet someone who can accept us no matter how imperfect we are..

As much as it hurts, you have to respect his decision. Not everyone is capable of holding space for those of us that are struggling with mental illness. Reaching out to friends who get me, connecting with myself, connecting with nature, and speaking to my therapist are things I have done when I've been let down like this.

Sadly, sometimes people are not able to cope with others who have mental health issues. This does not mean that you have done something wrong, but it means that some people do not know how to cope and give the proper support you need. The best thing you can do is to remember we can not control how others feel or how they react to us, but we can control ourselves. Take some time for self care and talk about things with friends and family. Keep moving forward and reach your full potential as you are meant to do!