How to Help Your Partner Who is Struggling with Depression: Tips for Supporting Your Loved One

Depression is a serious mental illness that can affect anyone at any time. If you have a partner who is struggling with depression, it can be difficult to know what to do or how to help.

Thankfully, there are some things you can do to support your loved one and help them through this tough time..

What can you do to help your partner overcome depression?

The first thing to keep in mind is that depression is an illness. Just like any other illness, it is not something that your partner can simply “snap out of.” It is important to be understanding and patient as they work through their depression.

Dealing with someone who is struggling with depression can take a toll on your own mental health. Find the time to take care of your own mental and physical health. It can be difficult to be supportive if you are not taking care of yourself.

Try to focus on creating pockets of joy. This may seem difficult, but it is important to find moments of happiness amidst all of the sadness. Depression can make it hard to find any enjoyment in life, so it is up to you to help your partner find those moments. There is no need for grand gestures – going for a walk in a park or cooking a delicious meal can be enough.

If you make an effort but your partner does not seem appreciative, do not take it personally. Depression can cause people to withdraw and become unresponsive, even to those they love.

Encourage your partner to get help from a mental health professional. This is often an important step in recovery. If they are resistant to the idea, try to be understanding. It can be difficult for people to seek help, but it is often necessary. Explore different options such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or medication.

Finally, be there for your partner. Just being present and available to talk can make a big difference. Show them that you love them and that you are there for them, no matter what. Listen to them when they need to talk and offer a shoulder to cry on when needed. Sometimes, simply being there can make all the difference.

This too will pass

Depression is a difficult illness, but there are ways to support your partner through it. Just remember to be patient, take care of yourself, focus on creating pockets of joy, and encourage your partner to get help from a mental health professional.

Most importantly, be there for them. Show them that you love them and that you will support them through anything.