Dealing with Depression in a Loved One: How You Can Help
If you found out that your spouse or significant other is feeling depressed or is actually suffering from depression, you may feel helpless or even lost. Dealing with depression is difficult for both the sufferer and their loved ones. Some people feel guilty or angry regarding their partner's depression. They may wonder why their partner cannot get better on their own. They may wonder if they have contributed to the problem in any way. If any of these feelings sound familiar, it's because they are completely normal.
The best way to help a depressed loved one is to first become educated about depression. Depression is characterized by a group of symptoms that occur for a period longer than two weeks. Symptoms might include excessive sadness, unexplained crying, feelings of hopelessness, a reduction in libido, a lack of interest in normal activities, decreased or increased appetite, changes in sleeping patterns, hostility, anxiety, and even physical aches and pains. Some people have more symptoms than others. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Depression is thought to be caused in part by an imbalance of serotonin and/or norepinephrine in the brain. Other potential causes include major stressors or trauma. This may include injury, illness, job loss or the death of a loved one. If there are no discernable triggers or causes of your partner's depression, then the problem may indeed be chemical in nature.
Your partner may be aware of their depression, and they may be interested in obtaining professional help. In this case, a simple expression of your love and support can mean a lot. Ask them if there is anything you can do to make things easier or more convenient. This might mean driving your partner to their doctor appointments or getting their prescriptions filled for them. If your partner does not seem aware of their depression, they may be in denial. Try broaching the subject in a gentle, non-confrontational manner. Express to them that you are concerned for their health and well-being. Suggest they see their doctor to rule out any physical causes of their symptoms. Once they're there, the doctor may be able to discuss the topic of depression with them.
Dealing with depression can be a difficult journey for sufferers as well as their friends and family. You may want to visit a counselor on your own to learn more ways to support your partner and help them cope with their depression. You might also need to learn some coping mechanisms to prevent yourself from becoming overwhelmed with worry or stress. Finally, by simply offering your love and support to your partner, you can make more of a difference than you may imagine.
Copyright 2007 Jim Sterling - All Rights Reserved
What is Depression?
Blood Test May Help Diagnose Depression - WebMD
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Terrie M. Williams: Depression does not discriminate - Local 10
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'I Wanted To Live': New Depression Drugs Offer Hope For Toughest Cases - NPR (blog)
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