What are some signs that your partner may be experiencing depression and how can you support them?

It's a difficult task for both partners when one has to deal with depression. This feeling of emptiness and sadness can slowly consume one's life and lead to feelings of hopelessness, but you may find that signs of depression can differ from person to person and understanding of how to help partner in this situation can sometimes be challenging.

It’s important to note that depression can manifest itself in different ways and that your partner may not always appear depressed outwardly. Sometimes the signs can be difficult to discern and it takes careful observation to catch them early on. One sign may be changes in behavior such as withdrawal from family and friends, and lack of interest in usually enjoyable activities or hobbies. They may also complain about being tired all the time, even after having had a good night’s rest. It can sometimes be hard to resist the urge to try to fix your partner's problems instead of offering support but it is important to remember that depression is an illness and needs to be treated equally so.

Another sign is a sudden change in their demeanor. A partner who was once filled with life and enthusiasm may become very listless and display mood swings. They might start spending more time in solitude, isolating themselves away from family, friends and activities they previously found pleasure in. This kind of behavior may also be accompanied by loss of appetite or overeating, and an overwhelming sense of numbness.

It is important to approach your partner in a supportive manner, without passing judgment and offering sympathy. You should gently remind them of their abilities and encourage them to have hope for the future. Gentle words and reminder that things can get better can make a huge difference in restoring their self confidence and opening their eyes to all the wonderful possibilities in life.

Sometimes, just simply providing companionship and being there for them will make a huge difference. Don’t try to take control of the situation, but instead suggest enlisting professional help such as counseling or therapy as a source of emotional support. In addition to medical help, it may be beneficial to support your partner in developing healthy coping mechanisms such as exercise, meditation and journaling, as these methods can be incredibly effective in managing depression.

Never underestimate the power of small gestures and kind words during difficult times. Even something as simple as a cuddle, or a quiet moment of tenderness can bring a sense of comfort to your partner. As much as you want to take your partner’s pain away, it is important to remember that this is a process and will require patience and understanding on your behalf.

You are not alone in this journey. Seeking support from family and friends is also beneficial, as they may assist in creating a strong support system that will help keep your partner from feeling isolated. The road to recovery from depression may seem long and tiresome but with the right amount of compassion, you can help your partner to see the light at the end of the tunnel.