My SO has been stressed for an extended period of time and it’s getting worse. He’s not doing anything to curb that stress. I have been trying my best to make his life easier in this time but I’m frustrated now.

He raised his voice at me for something that wasn’t my fault and I basically yelled right back. I told him I wasn’t his lackey and then just stonewalled. He apologised within minutes but I’m getting anxious because, as much as yesterday was the worst, he’s been generally snappy and so on.

I’ve pointed out his behaviour to him when we aren’t in the moment on a few occasions. I’ve told he’s become increasingly and unnecessarily combative, not just with me, but in general.

I have tried doing what I can for him, but now I just want to avoid him. Last night, I drew myself a bath and called him to show him how lovely Lush bath bombs looks, and all he could say was that I wasting water. I went straight to bed after the bath and I don’t actually feel like engaging him today.

The worst is that he doesn’t even realise when he’s being rough and I usually just absorb it because I’m patient and I get it. But I’m no longer patient and actually just don’t want to deal with this stuff.

Does anyone have any advice?

PS I have suggested therapy but he says it won’t help. The therapy won’t change the fact that he’s trying to run a business in a depressed economy. Etc.