25/10/2024
OCTOBER IS THE MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH 2024
Depression in your partner can seriously affEct you (and anyone close to the sufferer). It causes sadness, irritability, restlessness, withdrawal, fatigue and lack of interest in life, all of which can trigger depression in you too.
Mr. Joe* became depressed when he lost his father and his job in the same month. 'He turned in on himself and began drinking,' says Patricia*, his wife.
My heart bled for him, but I also felt rejected, helpless and angry. The kids and I needed him!' Earlier this year, a pastor persueaded Mr. Joe to get counselling, and he was put on antidepressants.
'I feel like I've got my husband back,' Patricia says. 'He's going for job interviews and doing volunteer work for the church to build his self-esteem.'
TACKLE THE ISSUE:
¤ Never instruct a depressed partner to 'get over it' or 'think positively.' Tell them you love them and you want to understand what they are going through, and help them with it.'
¤ Treat them with respect and care, as though they are recovering from a serious physical illness. Be willing to listen wheb they want to talk.
¤ Make time to walk together or do other brisk exercise, which releases feel-good endorphins.
¤ Don't pressure your partner for intimacy - depression can dampen libido and the ability to or**sm. Cuddle and touch to stay close.
¤ Never take talk of su***de lightly. If you feel your partner may be suicidal, get help immediately.
'TREAT THEM AS THOUGH THEY ARE RECOVERING FROM A SERIOUS PHYSICAL ILLNESS'