Dear Abby: Boyfriend’s weird stupor comes with torrent of abuse

Dear Abby: I am a divorced single mom who finally met someone. “Greg” and I have been dating for two months. Greg is divorced and financially stable. Plus, he gets along well with my teenage son.

The problem is, every two or three weeks, Greg falls into a deep sleep that lasts three days. He’ll get up for a glass of water, but goes right back to sleep. It causes him to miss work, and he becomes verbally abusive during these episodes.

Over Christmas, I saw him coherent for only 10 minutes the entire weekend. When he wasn’t half-asleep, he was calling me names, belittling me and telling me nobody but he would ever love me so I had “better stay.” On Christmas Eve, I was left alone and crying in a dark living room.

Aside from these episodes, he’s attentive and charming. His daughter told me he’s been like this for years. I feel resentful about what he’s put me through, but I’m afraid I’ll never find someone else after being lonely for so long. Can I get your advice on this? — Incredulous in Oklahoma Dear Incredulous: Greg’s behavior is not normal. Talk to him when he’s conscious. Ask if he remembers what happens to his personality when he’s “asleep.” Tell him his rants are hurtful and abusive. Ask what he thinks causes these episodes. Could he be having an adverse reaction to a medication or some other substance he’s taking.

Greg may need to be examined to ensure he doesn’t have a medical issue. If he refuses, draw the line NOW and end the relationship because it won’t improve.

As lonely as you may be, PLEASE consider how lonely your future will be if you stay with him, and how damaging it will be to your son.