<human>: Summarize the given text in a few sentences.

My partner (M/19) of almost a year is leaving for a skii trip in November, and returning in April next year.
Although I (F/18) was very upset and asked him to wait for next year, I don't want to stop him from seeing the world and experiencing new things. 
However, I have depression, and when we've been apart I've found it really difficult. I feel like I'm a lot better and stronger now, but it will still hurt and we will miss each other a lot. 
He too was really upset after telling me, and we both love each other a lot, but is waiting 6 months till we see each other again too hard? Should we do our own thing during that time, have an open relationship? 

The 6 months leading up to him leaving, I want to make the most of. I don't want this at the front of my mind, but its just hard after being told only 24 hours ago. Any suggestions to make it easier? Any suggestions on how/what we should do before he leaves?
<bot>: my bf of a year is going to Canada for 6 months in 6 months time. unsure whether to stick it out long distance style or do our own thing for a bit.