Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions in the world. You probably know family members and friends who deal with it. But, it’s different when you’re in a relationship with someone who has depression — especially if you live with them.
Thankfully, there are many management techniques and treatment options for the condition. But, as a romantic partner, it’s important to do what you can to support the person you love as they’re trying to overcome those feelings of extreme sadness and hopelessness.
You might feel a bit helpless, yourself, wondering what you can do to be there for your partner. If so, you’re not alone. Let’s cover a few ways you can support your partner if they have depression, letting them know you’re there for them — no matter what.
1. Educate Yourself
One of the best things you can do to support someone with depression is to learn more about the condition. Most people have a basic idea of what depression is, but it can look different for everyone. Don’t make assumptions about your partner or what they’re going through based on stereotypes or misinformation.
Educate yourself on the common symptoms and why they occur. Talk to your partner and ask them questions about how their depression makes them feel or if certain things trigger it more than others.
The more you familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of depression, the more confident and comfortable you’ll be supporting your partner through it.
2. Create the Right Environment
If you live with your partner, creating a home environment where they feel safe and valued is important. That obviously includes physical things like reducing stress within the home. Keep things clean as much as possible, maintain a routine with your partner, etc.
It also includes creating a lifestyle with your partner that can help to improve their overall mental health. You can exercise together and cook healthy meals. Offer them encouragement and positive reinforcement.
3. Listen to Them
Communicating with your partner about their struggles can be a huge help. While making suggestions and offering words of encouragement are important, it’s just as crucial to be an active listener.
Don’t just “hear” your partner. Show them you truly understand what they’re saying and what they mean. Ask questions if you don’t quite get it. Use nonverbal cues to show them you’re paying attention.
Active listening is an important part of any relationship. But when your partner is willing to open up about their struggles, it becomes even more essential. The safer they feel being vulnerable around you, the more likely they will continue to talk, even when they’re struggling.
4. Encourage Them to Get Help
If there’s a silver lining to depression, it’s that it’s often very manageable with the right kind of treatment. Being a support system for your partner at home is a wonderful thing, but you shouldn’t try to bear the brunt of their condition on your own.
Instead, encourage them to get help from a professional. A therapist can help someone struggling with depression to get to the “root” cause of their issues. That’s not an easy thing to do — especially for the person with depression. But, it’s often a necessary first step when someone really wants to heal.
Therapy can also help with symptom management, and eventually overcoming feelings of sadness and hopelessness.
It’s never easy to see someone you love dealing with depression. But, as you can see, you can do your part to support that person through their struggles. Encourage your partner to Contact Us to set up an appointment soon, and continue to offer your support throughout the treatment process.