I just recently broke up with a boyfriend of 7 years and am wondering if anyone has actually stayed friends with their ex?

I truly love this guy and left because he has personal things he needs to figure out before I continue being with him because it’s been making me very lonely and depressed in our relationship. I hope that one day we can get back together because I truly do love him but for the time being I can only be his friend. The relationship is just not good for my wellbeing and I can’t keep living with a partner who won’t help themselves. We tried working on things multiple times for years and I always stuck by him, I feel worn down and I need to focus on my wellbeing.

Please comment if you have any experience with something like this and things working out as friends and/or getting back together again later.