Depression is a mental illness that requires treatment just like any other condition.There are things you can do to help a depressed spouse.Taking good care of yourself, helping your spouse get treatment, and supporting them during treatment are all important ways that you can help recover from depression.You can learn more about how to help your spouse with depression.
Step 1: You should be aware of the symptoms of depression in your spouse.
It's possible that your spouse is depressed by the way he or she is acting.There are a number of signs of depression that can help you determine if something is wrong.There are some symptoms of depression that include persistent sad feelings, loss of interest in hobbies, friends and/or sex, excessive fatigue or feeling slowed down in thinking, speaking, or movement.
Step 2: Encourage your spouse or partner to seek help.
Your spouse may not be able to ask for help because of his/her depression.He or she may be embarrassed by their condition.Encourage your spouse to talk to a therapist if you suspect they have depression.You should arrange for your spouse to talk to a therapist.The therapist may refer your spouse to see a Psychiatrist.If your spouse or partner wants you to be there for moral support, you can ask.If you don't know where to start, you can make your spouse an appointment with their primary care physician.
Step 3: Take the time to educate yourself.
Understanding depression, its effects, and treatment will allow you to better understand your spouse and help him or her make informed decisions.You can ask questions and read books about depression.There are many organizations that help people with depression.As you support your spouse, check out some websites.There are many resources on the National Alliance on Mental Illness website.There is information on depression on the American Psychological Association's website.There are a lot of resources on the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance website.
Step 4: Encourage your spouse to talk to you.
Talking openly about depression as a real illness with real consequences can bring relief to people with depression since it shows that someone cares and is willing to help.It is important for your partner to get help, but they may benefit from talking to you about their feelings.Say to your spouse that you care about them.Before you leave for work, say something like, "I love you and I am here for you."Say something like, "I am so proud of you and what you have accomplished today" and let your spouse know that you are there for them.I will be there for you even if I am not home.
Step 5: Listen.
It is important for you to understand your spouse's point of view in order to support them through recovery.Make sure that you allow your spouse to express themselves and let him or her tell you about their feelings.Don't force your spouse to share.Give them time and let them know that you will listen when they are ready.As you listen to your spouse, be attentive.Let them know that you are listening.Try to repeat what your spouse has just said to let them know that you are paying attention.Don't try to take over the conversation, or end sentences for them.Even though it might be hard, be patient.Say things like, "I see," "Go on," and "Yes" to make your spouse feel heard.
Step 6: Take part in the recovery of your spouse or partner.
It is important that you support your spouse during the treatment process, even if you don't understand why he or she is depressed.If you don't know what you can do to help your spouse, you could ask.Taking over some of your spouse's usual responsibilities is one of the ways that you could help.Paying bills, talking to people who knock at the front door, and dealing with neighborhood disputes are some of the tasks your spouse or partner used to be responsible for.If you don't know what to do, ask your partner.You won't be taking over your spouse's responsibilities forever, just until he or she recovers.Friends and family can help you.Ensuring that your spouse is taking care of his or her physical needs.Make sure that your spouse is eating well, exercising, and taking his or her medication.If possible, sitting in on some counseling sessions, but don't force your spouse or partner to agree to let you sit in.
Step 7: Hope is something your spouse or partner can accept.
Faith in God, love for their children, and any other reason that is meaningful for your spouse are some of the ways in which hope can come.During times when your spouse doesn't think they can hold on any longer, remind them that you know what matters the most to them.If you can, tell them that bad things will pass, that you'll be there for them, and that he or she is very important in your life.Make sure your spouse knows how much you love them and that you will support them through this difficult time.Tell them it's not their fault.Make sure you understand if they can't meet household obligations.Feeding the dog, cleaning the house, and paying the bills are normal everyday tasks, but they might be overwhelming to them.Talk about the illness and how it causes your spouse or partner to think things are terrible, impossible, un fixable, etc.You should acknowledge your spouse's feelings and promise to work out a solution.
Step 8: Encourage your spouse or partner to do things they used to enjoy and to try new things that may help with their recovery
You can ask them to go to the movies with you.Be patient and keep asking if they refuse the first few times.He or she may not be able to cope with too many activities at the same time.Praise your spouse or partner if they are doing something that makes them feel better."Thanks for mowing the lawn" is a simple statement.It looks great.It could mean a lot to a person with depression.
Step 9: There are things to do.
You should plan fun activities for the whole family to enjoy because your spouse might feel more comfortable just spending time at home with you and your family.It's good to have things to look forward to in a family.A change in environment will give you all a break and it will be beneficial for your spouse or partner with depression.You can invite a couple of good friends over if you don't have kids.Make sure that you invite friends that your spouse is comfortable with.
Step 10: Look at the signs of suicide.
Sometimes people with depression commit suicide because of the hopelessness of their feelings.Take it seriously if your spouse talks about suicide.If there is evidence that they have a plan, they should act out on their thoughts.If you notice any of the following warning signs, be on the lookout for it.To get advice about what to do, call a health care professional, mental health clinic or the National Suicide Prevention Hotline.
Step 11: Don't look at yourself.
When your spouse is in pain, it's easy to forget about your own needs, but if you're unable to function properly, you won't be able to help.Feelings of depression can affect your entire family.It's important that you take good care of yourself while you help your spouse deal with depression.Keep in touch with family and friends and get enough sleep, eat well, and exercise.Take some time to step away from the situation.You may be able to cope better with your spouse's depression if you join a support group.Reduce stress at work.It will wear you down if you have too many sources of stress.Seek advice from your doctor and other health professionals in charge of caring for your kids' well-being if you have a spouse or partner who is depressed.