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How to Support a Partner Going Through Depression

Depression is a challenging mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. When someone you love is struggling with depression, it can be difficult to know how best to support them. This article will guide you through various strategies and considerations to help you be there for your partner during this tough time.

Common symptoms of Depression include:

Persistent sadness or a depressed mood
Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
Fatigue or lack of energy
Changes in appetite or weight
Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Thoughts of death or suicide

Depression can manifest differently in everyone, and it’s important to recognize that it’s not something your partner can just “snap out of.” Understanding this is weighty in providing the right kind of support.

13 Ways to Support a Partner Going Through Depression:

1. Communicate openly and without judgment.

One of the most important things you can do for your partner is to create a safe space for open communication. Encourage your partner to talk about their feelings, and listen without judgment. It’s important to be patient and understand that they may not always be able to articulate what they’re going through.

When they do open up, respond with empathy and understanding rather than trying to offer solutions or dismiss their feelings. Phrases like “I’m here for you,” “I’m listening,” and “It’s okay to feel this way” can be incredibly reassuring. Avoid saying things like “Just think positive” or “It’s not that bad,” as these can invalidate their feelings and make them feel even more isolated.

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2. understand What They are Going Through.

Depression can be caused by many factors. Understanding what exactly your partner is going through can be helpful in showing them support. For instance, they could be depressed because of academic failure, financial struggles, health challenges, bullying, or family or relationship problems. Knowing the source of their depression is important in providing them with the support they need.

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3. Motivate Them.

When a partner is going through depression, your primary duty is to be their motivator. Let them know that this phase is a normal part of life, which they will surely get through. You could say things like, “I understand what you are going through, but everything is going to be fine soon. I’m here for you. If you need anything, please open up to me; I will be glad to help.” or “Wipe your tears; it’s going to be alright. God will make a way for you.”

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4. Support Them.

Show emotional support to your partner and make them feel important. Help them see that life is worth living. If they are depressed due to financial difficulties, you may assist them with what you can. If they are grieving a loss, be by their side while they mourn. If they are depressed over an academic failure, remind them that failure is part of life. You could say, “To succeed, you must fail; don’t let this carryover weigh you down. We just need to put in more effort.”

If your partner is tired of living, make sure to spend time with them. Go for walks, watch movies together, play games, and help them see that life is still worth living. Whatever your partner is going through, offer your support.

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5. Be There for Them.

This is the time they need you most. Call and check in on them, and ensure they are mentally stable and happy. Reassure them by saying, “We’re in this together; whatever you are going through, we will face it together.” If they are depressed due to unemployment, you could help by looking for temporary job opportunities or asking family and friends to notify you of any job openings.

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6. Pray for Them.

If your partner’s sadness is connected to spiritual concerns, prayer can be a comforting option. Let them know that you are praying for them and encourage them to put their faith in God. You may also seek spiritual counseling together.

When I suffered from depression years ago, my fiancé introduced me to a clergyman who prayed for me and offered words of encouragement, which greatly helped my recovery. So, seeking spiritual help together can be a meaningful way to support your partner.

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7. Inform Their Family and Friends.

If your partner’s condition isn’t improving, despite your best efforts, it may be helpful to reach out to a trusted family member or friend. Your partner might listen to someone else, especially a parent, family member, or close friend. Sometimes, people who are depressed just need someone to talk to, and if they aren’t willing to open up to you, they might do so with someone else.

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8. Encourage Your Partner to See a Therapist.

Encourage your partner to seek help from a mental health professional. They may benefit from talk therapy or prescription medication. Make an appointment with a psychologist, psychiatrist, counselor, or family doctor for a diagnosis and begin therapy. Be supportive by accompanying them during these processes.

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9. Be Patient and Accept that Progress Takes Time.

Recovery from depression is often slow and non-linear. It’s important to be patient and manage your expectations. There will be good days and bad days, and it’s crucial to offer consistent support, even when it feels like progress is slow.

Avoid pressuring your partner to “get better” quickly, as this can increase their stress and feelings of inadequacy. Instead, celebrate small improvements and remind them that it’s okay to take things one day at a time.

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10. Support Their Treatment Plan.

If your partner is undergoing treatment, whether it’s therapy, medication, or both, support them in following their treatment plan. This might involve helping them remember to take their medication, attending therapy sessions, or encouraging them to engage in therapeutic activities recommended by their healthcare provider.

However, it’s important not to adopt a parental role. Instead of monitoring their every action, be supportive and encouraging, and let them know you’re proud of them for taking steps toward recovery.

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11. Take Care of Yourself.

Supporting a partner with depression can be emotionally exhausting, so it’s essential to take care of your own mental and physical health. Set boundaries when necessary and seek support from friends, family, or a therapist if you need it. To stay healthy, make sure to get enough sleep, exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and engage in activities that bring you joy.

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12. Be Alert.

While depression is serious in any form, it’s especially important to recognize the signs that your partner might be in danger and in need of immediate help. If they express thoughts of self-harm or suicide, take these feelings seriously.

Ask them directly if they are thinking of harming themselves. Contrary to common belief, asking about suicide won’t plant the idea in their mind. It may actually open a dialogue and provide them with a chance to talk about their feelings.

If they are in immediate danger, contact a mental health crisis line or take them to the nearest emergency room. Ensure they are not left alone until help is available.

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13. Be Hopeful of Recovery.

Finally, it’s important to maintain hope that your partner can recover from depression, but also to be realistic about the challenges ahead. Depression can be a chronic condition, and even with treatment, symptoms may resurface.