Depression is an illness and like all illnesses, it comes with some symptoms and effects. It is way more prevalent in our society than we would like to believe. The numbers are staggering in this case. 350 million people suffer from depression worldwide. So, it can happen to anyone. And if you happen to be one of them, then you know how it can wreak havoc in your life and in the lives of the people you love. A person suffering from depression is dealing with so much that he or she can end up hurting others around them without any intention of doing so. That generally happens when we don’t communicate with our partners and include them in our struggle to beat this illness. So, you can be a better partner by doing these five things in your relationship when you are dealing with depression.
1. Recognize Your Condition
People who are living with depression know when it surfaces. Simple chores that were joyful two days ago would suddenly seem difficult. Suddenly, your sleep would become elusive and mood swings would become more evident. Temper would become shorter and anger would become more volatile.
The symptoms of depression differ from person to person. But you will know when it hits you. It is very important that you communicate with your partner and let him or her know about it. Do not expect him or her to guess it. Remember your partner loves you and wants the very best for you. And it breaks his or her heart to see you suffer. So, let him or her know about your condition and graciously accept his or her help. You don’t have to do this alone. This is a battle that you both can fight and win together.
2. Communicate Clearly
It is of utmost importance that you let your partner know about this condition and what you are feeling. Vocalize your struggles and share with him or her. It is important that you let him or her know how you are perceiving the whole thing and how it is affecting you. Also, you need to tell your partner clearly that he or she is not responsible for it, he or she can’t fix the problem for you and you can’t just tolerate it and move on with your life. You must deal with it. It is important that your partner knows these three things for them to get a better idea of what is going on.
3. Keep Your Exit Strategy Ready Beforehand
If you are living with depression, then you know what you need to do to make it tolerable. So, since you have already come out of it, you know what really worked for you then. For example, for some people, sleep and sex can really take the edge of the condition. So, make a list of things that helped you through your phase. Share that with your partner. Let him or her know that they can’t fix the condition for you but they can help you deal with it by accepting it first.
4. Don’t Let Your Partner Suffer
It is important that you see your condition for what it is and what it does to you. The manifestations of depression can be anger, short temper and many other emotions. So, when you are having a bad day, don’t let your partner suffer because of you. Ask him or her to go on with his or her day and be happy. The last thing you want to do is to pass this condition on to someone else. So, ask them to go and have a great day without any guilt.
5. Seek Help
You know yourself better than anyone else. So, when you feel that you are not being able to control it. It is okay to seek help from a professional. It is better for both you and your partner. This will help you to get on with your life faster.
It is not easy living with depression. But with little acceptance and planning, you with the help of your partner can beat this condition.
