There is a man who I have been friends with for a few years he has a few problems in his life we talk about everything and seem to get really close he constantly texts but then when I let him in to my life he withdraws, this makes me depressed and fed up I convince myself its best to have nothing to do with him but then he starts the contact again and I cant say no. Any advice greatly appreciated
You've said it yourself, he only wants a long distance relationship and doesn't want direct contact. Listen to woofgang, people choose their boundaries and his clearly does not suit you.
It seems he is using you as an agony aunt or someone to unburden on to. It is a one way relationship, as you say "when I let him in to my life he withdraws." He is not interested in your life, only his. If you can accept that and it suits you, then fine but if you are looking for romance and love then you can hitch your star to much better wagons!! x