He has become very withdrawn and has shut the world off. Every little thing in life that goes wrong sets him back. He has recently told me that he wants to put us on hold because his mind is so clouded. What do I do?? How do I help him?
You are kind and loving partner. It hard to help someone when they are also pushing us away. Maybe give him some time to come to terms with his mom's dementia. He could be in denial about her aging and her increasing care.
If possible maybe speak with a social worker, family therapist, counselor or joining a support group for adult children who are dealing with parents with dementia. Its hard to help someone work through their feelings. We want to "fix" them or "help" them but they have to come to the conclusion on their own.
Chances are he is a co-dependent with his mother. Support him but do not smother him. He feels guilty for allowing another woman to enter his life. He thinks his punishment is her decline. Read up on co-dependency.
You are kind and loving partner. It hard to help someone when they are also pushing us away. Maybe give him some time to come to terms with his mom's dementia. He could be in denial about her aging and her increasing care.
If possible maybe speak with a social worker, family therapist, counselor or joining a support group for adult children who are dealing with parents with dementia. Its hard to help someone work through their feelings. We want to "fix" them or "help" them but they have to come to the conclusion on their own.