Whenever I want to try something new, my boyfriend discourages me.

He has completely brain washed you into thinking you're nothing without him. Your emotionally attached to him because of the relationship you have. You can do and make it on your own. You have the right to be happy and if he's not doing it for you or helping you to be happy, then why are you with him? I think he's feeding off of your caring heart and you need to step up and let him know your not dealing with it anymore. He has issues about his own self-esteem and if you guys have tried talking to the point where you have had a mental breakdown, then there's no point continuing with someone who doesnt deserve the right attention you dont even get from him. Your boyfriend is not a man. I'm sorry. You have lost a lot of your independance because he has all the control over you and unfortunately your emotions as well. You may not want to hear this, but I think you should definitely seperate. Why should you feel a prisoner in your own home? If I were you, I'd move fast, he may start to get violent tendencies if he hasn't already. Unfortunately, the controlling is normally how it starts. Break it off now, Please.