Being depressed is an awful thing to go through. Being in a relationship where one of the people are depressed is also difficult. Whether you are the one struggling with depression, or you are the one trying to care for the depressed person doesn't matter, it's still a hard thing to deal with. Here are some things you should know about depression and relationships.
There are different forms of depression, ranging from the mild to the severe. If the depression is mild, then the depressed partner may avoid taking part in certain activities, or may seem somewhat withdrawn. In severe cases, they may shut themselves off from the world completely and become suicidal. However, you have to be alert because mild depression can become severe very quickly.
Furthermore, depression is a serious medical condition. If family and friends find out somebody is depressed, they are likely to tell the person to cheer up, or that it's all in their head. Though they have good intentions, this is one of the worst things they can say. For one thing the person with depression already feels bad enough, and such comments make it sound like they're being depressed on purpose. The other downside of such comments is that can keep somebody from seeking the medical attention they need.
If you are the partner caring for somebody with depression, then it's up to you to help them in any way you can. If they have mild depression, then encouragement at the right time may be all you need. On the other hand, if it's really bad, you may have to keep an eye on them constantly or be ready to take them to the emergency room if the situation warrants it.
Depression can be treated in most cases. However, it can also be a lifelong problem. Taking care of a depressed person has its ups and downs (so to speak), but there is somebody else you need to care of, and that person is you. Dealing with depression can take a lot out of anybody. Don't neglect taking care of yourself as well. A lot of people find comfort in support groups, so see if there is one in your area.
There is a myth that love alone can conquer depression, that being in a relationship should be enough to get the person to "snap out of it". While this may be true to some extent in mild cases; this is one case where love does not conquer all. At the same time, it's important to know that just because your partner is depressed, doesn't mean they don't really love you. They are going through a tough time and may not feel anything at all, but once they are better, their real feelings will return.
To sum up, depression in a relationship is a serious matter, and should be treated as such. Don't fall for the many myths surrounding depression and seek help from a qualified professional as soon as you can; especially in cases that are more than mild. The sooner it's treated, the sooner things can return to normal.
6 tips to help your ex to fall back in love with you
How to get Your Wife Back After a Breakup or Divorce
No comments:
Post a Comment