5 Ways to Care for Your Partner Who has Depression
Your partner seems "off" and different lately. They've been a little quieter and more distant. They seem down, angry, and exhausted. This has been ongoing for a few weeks now, so you know it isn't just a "bad day," despite what they're telling you when they come home from work each night. You also noticed a change in their sleeping and eating habits. Is it something you did? Is it something you said? Are you the problem?
Here are 5 ways to care for your partner who has depression.
1. Don't Take It Personally
First things first, your partner's depression isn't your fault. It's no one's fault. It can be easy to go into defense mode, especially if you aren't aware of the signs and symptoms of depression that may be affecting your partner. Your partner's depression didn't happen overnight, so patience and kindness are necessary to help your partner to get through this. Be patient and kind. Let them know that you hear them and you're there for them whenever and however they need you to be.
2. Educate Yourself About Depression
Taking the time to educate yourself about depression can help you learn about the causes, signs, symptoms, and ways to cope. Educating yourself will help you become more knowledgeable and increase your ability to pick up on any signs or symptoms your partner may be showing or experiencing. Plus, you may also learn about a few different techniques to be there for your partner and incorporate ideas and ways for them to cope during this challenging time.
3. Create a Supportive Environment at Home
You can help your partner during this time by creating a safe, secure, and supportive environment at home. Depression can cause changes in eating habits. You can work on implementing healthy eating habits together. Plan out your meals, go grocery shopping together, and meal prep for the week ahead. Plan time to get outside before or after dinner each night. Go for a walk together around your block and enjoy the fresh air and nature while having a bit of alone time together.
You can help your partner stay on a schedule and routine by waking up at the same time in the morning and going to bed around the same time each night. Depression can affect a person's sleeping habits as well, so implementing a set schedule and routine can help out immensely. Also, don't forget to date one another. Planning date nights just like you did before you found out your partner has depression can get your partner to be social again. Watch a movie, plan a game night, or attend a cooking or art class together. Have fun with one another again.
4. Don't Forget About Your Needs
You can't fill your partner's cup if yours is completely empty. One of the best ways to help your partner is by helping yourself first. Self-care is not selfish. It's one of the best things you can do for yourself and your partner. Find time for yourself each day, guilt-free. When you make sure your own needs are met, you'll have more energy to give to your partner and make sure they're okay. It's a win-win.
5. Encourage Them to Seek Professional Help
Reaching out for help is one of the hardest but strongest things a person who is struggling with depression can do. Depression is treatable. Encourage your partner to seek help from a licensed and trained therapist. Despite taking the time to learn more about depression as a way to help your partner, you're not qualified to help treat them. The longer depression is left untreated, the worse the signs and symptoms will be. Use "I" statements to share how you feel, what you've noticed, and how you want to help.
If you or your partner is struggling, reach out to me today to schedule a consultation. Depression counseling can help you deal with the challenges in life more easily.