How to help a partner with Depression
Trying to help your partner through the perils of depression is a tough and emotional road for all parties concerned. You want to think about this compassionately because your partner may be feeling lonely, or overwhelmed. Find ways to help, support strategies
1. Educate Yourself
The first step to being a supportive partner is understanding depression. Symptoms, Causes & Treatments Using this understanding to imagine how it might feel for your partner can make you more aware of what they could be going through, and equip you to respond in the best manner.
2. Encourage Open Communication
Its critically important to allow your partner space or grace in confessing their feelings. We are here to listen, not judge. One of the most important things we can do for our loved ones who are going through tough times is to ask them open-ended questions and let them take their time responding.
3. Be Present
In many cases, the best thing you can do is literally to be there. Your presence can be comforting, whether it’s just quietly sitting with them or watching a movie together or going for a walk. Assure your partner that you are experiencing challenge together.
4. Offer Practical Help
Depression can make even the simplest tasks seem insurmountable. Help with house chores, cook or run errands for them! Such things as cooking or cleaning after another all can assist in reducing their problems.
5. Encourage Professional Help
If they have not already, gently suggest to your partner that they get help. This could be in the form of therapy or medication. Encourage to collect information together, but leave the final decision up to them.
6. Be Mindful of Your Words
Language matters. Do not use the phrases “just think positive” or others have it worse as this can come off very dismissive. Instead, validate their feelings and support them with a reaffirmation of your faith in their resilience.
7. Create a Routine Together
Assist with creating structure or routine that including self care activities. Any activity that can be shared (hosting a brunch, reading books together in bed on Sunday mornings), such as exercise or meditation or hobbies.
8. Take Care of Yourself
Dealing with a person having depression can really drag you emotionally as well. Your mental health is also important to take care of. Get help from friends or professionals to handle those emotions.
9. Celebrate Small Wins
You should also acknowledge and praise each other for small victories. It can be as simple getting out of bed, or going to an event that you were invited too, and even if it is just finishing a couple tasks.
10. Be Patient
There are a lot of ebbs and flows in recovery. Stay patient, stay level-headed. Even your person will have off days and that is perfectly normal. Your constant help is just about the only thing that can stabilize them.
Conclusion
We will have to be compassionate, understanding and supporting partner for a person suffering with depression. Informed, open dialogue is key to helping someone in their journey. And keep in mind that you are not the only one; there is support for both of you, specially groups.