What’s it really like to feel depressed? What can you do to help them through hard times? How will their symptoms and treatment affect your relationship? While every person’s experience with depression is unique, here are a few things you can do to help your loved one and yourself.
Anxiety and Depression Association of America Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance Mental Health America National Alliance on Mental Illness National Institute of Mental Health
It’s especially important to validate your partner’s feelings and experience of this very real and biologically based illness. Know that just like any other illness, it can be treated. Suicide is also a very real risk of depression, so it’s important to keep your loved one’s environment safe (such as removing any alcohol, drugs, or guns) and to take it seriously if your loved one is feeling suicidal. For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database.
Eating a healthy diet Exercising Getting enough sleep Participating in hobbies and activities you enjoy Praying or meditating Practicing relaxation strategies Spending time in nature Staying socially connected
Therapists, counselors, and support groups are not only for people with depression. Seeking professional help for yourself can help you feel supported, vent your frustrations, and make you more aware of your own emotional needs. Therapy can also provide answers to any questions you have about coping with the depression of a loved one. Even if you don’t go the mental health professional route, it’s important to lean on your support network during this difficult time. Offer to help them with making appointments or doing some of the daily chores that they are struggling to keep up with. Let them know that you are there for them in whatever way they need while they make their recovery. These things are not personal, and they don’t mean that your partner no longer cares for or about you. They are symptoms of the illness that requires treatment. Let them know that you understand that depression is affecting their thoughts, feelings, and behavior and that you (still) love them. Reassure them that you are here to support them in their journey to get better.
