I am appreciating what you have posted because I am in a very similar situation with my husband. I have a few supportive friends, but careful not to involve others, as I have been burnt by oversharing, it can spoil friendships. I find choosing the right people to communicate is vital. Having family close or not, I have been in that situation having shifted 12 times in 15 years. I find, sometimes having mine or husbands family close hasn't really helped. I have had friends wonder why I have stayed with my husband, and family really feeling sorry for me. Love is a strong thing, it is hard to know why we pick the partners we do, but marriage is through the good and the bad, and we have had our share. The more I have suggested, talked, pushed or complained, it hasn't helped. He knows what I say. I am training myself to not try to offer suggestions, because I find my husband isn't listening to my advice. In fact, I guess he feels there is no point in repeating myself. I am fortunate because my husband is getting out of bed still, even if it's me, knocking on his door, making him the coffee. I have decided, that if we are to stay together, I need to allow him to live exactly as he chooses, and for myself to continue on as though he will work it out for himself. Certainly treating him as though he can't make a decision, or giving him directions, hasn't worked. My idea for you, and it is only my idea, is to perhaps have a meeting with the kids, and talk to them about what makes them happy, bring laughter and fun in when you can. Don't expect anything from him for a couple of weeks, take your foot off the pedal, and just glide. You all love each other, that's the key. So why not try to just let him ride it out, and carry on. I have started sketching, going out for a coffee with a friend, going for walks by myself. I no longer expect my husband to do any of it. In fact, playing the opposite game, is working better. It takes the pressure of him to perform tasks I want him to perform. After all it is all about him. I have shifted my focus to myself, and let go of trying to suggest or solve. I am finding myself, and mentally, letting him go. I treat my life as though I am single and he isn't there, and then I am there for him, and love him. I no longer search for the man I had in my life at first, I am just holding space for him to return.