From the article: Top 10 Tips for Coping with Depression in a Relationship
Are you married to someone who is depressed? Coping with a depressed spouse can be physically and emotionally draining and make you more prone to becoming depressed yourself. What tips can you offer to others who are coping with a depressed spouse? Share Your Tips
depressed spouse
- My husband has been severely depressed for over 7 years. I have found it very important to keep humor and nurturing moments in my life --and to remember that it is not about me, it is his illness.
- —Guest Sue
thank you
- Thank you for your response. one day at a time . i knew it was contageous but was feeliing like i was over reacting. it is so difficult to not try and force therapy .i can see what might help and get so frustrated when she doesnt try. i get the feeling it is a losing battle.
- —scott.swan
Coping With a Depressed Spouse
- My wife was diagnosed with severe depression/anxiety disorder some three to four years ago I have tryed to cope but it is very very difficult. She is aggersive at times and blames me for definding myself. If I remind her of forgetfulness she attack me verbally. sorry but I'm try to find help do anyone have any advise, Thank you
- —justlookn1
coping with my boyfriend's depression
- I have only known my boyfriend for a year but I have a few suggestions that I hope will help: 1. Separate your partner from his illness. It's an illness just like having cancer- but it's not who he is. This is easier said than done- but you've gotta do it. Love him; battle the illness. 2. Read everything you can get your hands on- some of the literature is contradicting. Don't be afraid to entertain new ideas. There is a great book called "The Depression Cure" that we are both reading right now. There is more to depression than antidepressants and counselling (some people do not respond to all therapies.) 3. Don't try to completely take over- becoming bossy or judgemental will only push your loved one away. Think of it as a journey you are taking together. Gentle nudges work better. 4. Take care of yourself. Don't allow yourself to become too depleted. Create some space away to replenish because the exposure to your depressed partner has a contagious effect. Cheers-J
- —JBG2
gail
- My husband was diagnosed with severe depression/anxiety disorder just this past December, has been on medical leave from work 3 times since then. We have been to a therapist, Pysychistrist, taking meds and still he doesn't see to be able to handle the smallest decision. There are days when I just want to cry and scream all day, but then we have days like today where he helps me with daily chores. But I never know what tomorrow brings. I have held his hand, hugged him, yelled at him try to reason with him. I just take one day at a time. Sometimes it just is too much for me to take. And I was really saddend to learn we had no support systems in our town. So it was a comfort to know I am not alone...
- —Guest gail
