OH and I are going through a really difficult time at the moment with a complicated pregnancy with a poor prognosis and it's really taken a toll on both of us. Overall, we're actually doing quite well all things considered but sometimes it builds up and one, or both of us, have a bit of a meltdown. Which is understandable I guess.
The problem is that when OH gets really stressed and upset, he hits himself. This is something he picked up from his (sadly late) DM whilst growing up and hasn't been able to get out of. He'll slap himself, punch himself and hit his head off walls. He's now on antidepressants which are a great help for his mood and helping him cope but obviously, it doesn't solve the problem. If he does get in that state again he will continue to do it and with my due date looming, it's definitely a cause for concern.
My younger brother has autism and also does this and my DM has never been able to get him to stop, so I'm not sure what advice I can give my OH to help him. He did mention it to his Dr when they prescribed the anti-depressants but they didn't say anything and just kind of gave a pitying half smile - so not exactly helpful.
It would be a huge thing for OH to be able to find ways to stop himself doing it as it creates a vicious cycle in which he feels awful for doing it and then feels like he deserves to be hit and it's heartbreaking to see him struggle with himself so much. We've already got a lot on our plates that, unfortunately, we can't do anything about. OH tends to feel better in general if he is making even a little progress with his problems so thought I might seek some advice.
Has anyone dealt with similar? If so, what helped you? Thank you in advance!