What does a guy mean when he says "Don't get too close to me" or "I don't understand how you can like me."

[Jazzyfae]

I've been seeing this guy for almost a month now and things have been going great. It's weird but both of us have been very open with each other about the past. He has some problems, like he drinks a lot (never drinks and drives), and he's ten years older than me. He's told me these problems and I've accepted them (not telling him that I come from a long line of drinkers myself and it's comfortable for me). He calls everyday, flys up to see me and spends all the time with me, tell people about me, sometimes calls me his girl, but sometimes he'll make comments like " I don't understand why you like me" or "I am totally into you, you are perfect, but just be careful with me, don't like me too much." I've confronted him about what he means and he says he's trying to give me "life lessons" or he swears he won't say it again. Or he literally says "Because I'm kinda f***** up and you know why." Recently I told him I feel like an idiot dating him if he insists that I deserve better and that if he wants me to go, I'll go. Then he swears that he said some messed up things but he wants to know how he can prove that he liked me any more because he spends all of his time with me. I'm quite confused and I'm wondering what he mean. He's planning long term things with me like trips overseas months from now and he says he wants to be with me but then says these things sometimes. We get along perfectly and can talk forever and have tons of fun all the time.

[Brando]

Because of his problems (and despite you accepting and liking him), he probably feels like his problems are going to be too hurtful or dangerous to you. He cares enough about you to not want to see you get hurt, even by him. So it's his way of avoiding letting you in to see his problems, for any number of his own reasons.

[Nneuromancer]

I would say he thinks his life is crap, and probably may have thought about ending it. Being from drinkers you should know he is pushing you away and not wanting help. I know you feel for this guy and he feels for you but until he truly wants to get help you’re just waiting your time with him.

[superuss]

Sounds like a good guy, but really needs to learn to love himself more. Maybe you could get him into therapy. Of course bringing up the issue of therapy can be difficult. He may also need some sort of anti-depressant.

[Anonymous]

It means he's not into you and doesn't want you to get too attached