Depression related - Is it ever reasonable to walk away?

[ThisWillSoOutMe]

Is there ever a point where it would be considered reasonable to walk away from someone with severe depression?

[lowcarbforthewin]

Yes. I left my ex because of his severe depression. It wasn't a simple decision, I felt terrible, I really loved him. But he refused to try any treatment. Refused to wash. Refused to do basic things like go to his gp. And all the while he got more and more ill, I became a nervous wreck, and to be honest it is sometimes the case that people like wallowing in their depression and get comfortable with it. Before I get flamed for that, I had severe depression for 13 years, I'm not saying everyone does, and I know most people with depression desperately want to get well.

I had to walk away for my own sanity. I was getting depressed again after fighting hard to get better. It was the right decision for me. He seems to be doing better now, but I know I can't be with him again. Sometimes you do have to protect yourself and walk away. It's very very draining supporting someone with depression. It's a terrible, evil illness.

[SurfBoredCat]

I think YANBU.
I work in mental health and have experienced loved ones with depression and I believe that there can come a point where it is necessary to end the relationship/friendship.

It sounds to me like you have enough on your plate without worrying about this particular relationship.
Someone on here once directed me to an article about 'depression fallout' which talks about how people in a relationship/friendship with someone who suffers from depression can be deeply affected.

I also think that most people suffering from depression wouldn't be abusive/nasty to people close to them.

Look after yourself and don't feel bad if you make the difficult decision to pull back from this friendship.

[SolidGoldBrass]

Yes it's fine to walk away when you've had enough. Particularly if the depressed person is behaving abusively. Even though s/he 'can't help it' you are under no obligation to be someone else's emotional punchbag indefinitely.