Hi Lisa,

I was a caregiver for my husband and vented on a regular basis. I think what Gary has posted hits it right on the head. Men and women express themselves VERY differently. I like to talk to anyone who will listen - and my husband thinks if he hits the highlights sparingly he's saying too much.

The point is neither of you can tell the other how to feel only how you feel. Use "I" statements and let him know that this is what they mean by in good times and bad. He sounds like he is understandably scared. Keep trying to talk to him but if he's not able to reciprocate make sure that you have someone to talk to or vent here.

Support him but don't become an emotional punching bag because that won't help him either. You're in this together as a couple. Some days that goes better than others. Tomorrow is another day, and I would try again.

Regards JoAnne