Depression is something that has affected nearly all of us, be it directly or indirectly. Recognizing its symptoms and learning how to deal with it in a sensitive manner, then, can help not only us but also, our nearest and dearest. When you’re dealing with a partner with depression, it can often feel like there is no clear way out but by simply taking your time to understand the disease and approaching it gently, you can begin to support the one you love when they need you the most. Depression might be a battle to be fought but together, we can get through it.
- Focus On Communication
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While all types of depression vary hugely, there is no better way in which to understand what is going on to you or your loved one than by communicating with them. Explaining how you or your loved one is feeling will make it much easier for you both to understand the triggers, warning signs and patterns than might come with the disease. The more that you begin to understand what’s going on, the easier it will be to tackle it head on.
- Don’t See It As Something To Be Solved
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When we’re faced with a problem, it’s human nature for us to want to come up with a solution immediately and even in the face of depression, we can try and offer practical tips as a way of helping our partner get through it. More often than not, someone with depression knows how they could feel better but they simply want someone to listen to them talk. Show your support by actively listening, showing them affection and giving them eye contact. The fact that you’re with them through the whole thing says far more than any advice ever could.
- Keep Encouraging Them
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In any kind of relationship, we might stop actively showing our partner how much they mean to us as over time, we can feel like it’s obvious. In order to reinforce the foundation of your relationship, however, it can be very encouraging for you to voice your feelings of your partner on a regular basis and when it comes to depression, it is even more vital. Even though they might not say it out loud, your partner could be filled with negative thoughts and encouraging them every day can help them, even just a little bit. Depression is an illness; it does not define who you or anyone else is.
