Question regarding depression

A little background information: I am positive my boyfriend has depression (based off reading the warning signs for depression article). A few weeks ago it was something he was trying to overcome by himself and something we could talk about. It has now gotten worse to the point that it is basically breaking us apart because he is isolating himself, feeling worthless, and highly irritable with me. Our relationship is in a fragile state so it makes this even harder to deal with. I told him to see a doctor, but he thinks it has to be a psychologist/psychiatrist (which is health insurance doesnt cover) but I tell him to start with his primary first. He doesn't listen. It is a long distance relationship at the moment so I can't drag him to the doctor myself. He is not suicidal from what I know, but I do know he does have reckless behavior tendencies.

Questions: How can I help him? What are some techniques of communicating to him that won't make things worse? How do I help the relationship when he is like this?

[remar]

You are helping him by being there and supporting him. He can see his regular Dr for treatment. Many family Drs know about depression and other mental health conditions. That's where he needs to start.

[Kitkat05]

But he is so far gone he doesnt want me any where near him nor wants to be with me any more. He refuses to go to the doctor. He doesnt believe the primary doctor can help.

[remar]

That's really sad because there is help available. His insurance may not cover seeing a Psychiatrist but he can see his family Dr and get started on meds.
Try not to take this too personally. I know, easier said than done.It's not uncommon for someone with depression to just want to be left alone. Keep trying to get through to him that he needs help. That's all you can do really.
We also have a forum here that helps people that have a loved one that's depressed. You might want to check it out to get support for yourself.