Sounds like he has all of the ingredients to have a MLC, i.e., childhood issues and his near breakdown has set him on his journey of reliving his past and trying to face those demons that have been stuffed within his soul for such a long time. He will become the mirror image of the man you once knew (exact opposite). Yes, you will see some teenage behavior along the way. Try to remember that this is about him and not you. Always remind yourself that you didn't break him, therefore you can't fix him. He has to do that himself.
Just as we talk about detachment on Newcomers, you will need to do so here as well. Give him plenty of space and time. Listen closely to what he says and eventually you will be able to sift through what he's saying and begin to get a good idea of where his head is at. They do love to talk if you just sit back and listen. Try not to challenge and/or argue w/him. Do not tell him what you think is wrong w/him.
His MLC will not end any time soon. It could take, 3 or more years and some of the folks experiencing do not come out of it. Some will come out of it just fine and others will retain some of the quirks that they developed during the crisis. Ultimately, you will be the one to decide if you want to stand and hopefully if he returns and wants to reconcile, then you can make that decision.
This is not a sprint, but marathon. Dig deeper for patience and know that we are walking the path w/you.
Sit quietly, the answers will reveal themselves when you least expect them to. The past is gone, the present is a gift and you need to focus on today, allow the future to reveal itself when it is ready.
