How to support a partner with depression

I know you're an independent person, but I really want to help you.

For a Friend

1. I’m here to listen.

2. I’m here to help.

3. It’s okay to cry in front of me.

4. Tell me how you feel.

5. Even if you don’t want to talk now, call me any time, day or night.

6. You helped me when __________ . Let me help you with your problem now.

7. I know you’re an independent person, but I really want to help you with this.

For a Family Member

8. I’ll be right over.

9. Give me a job.

10. You’re not alone.

11. You can survive this. I’ll be here to help you every step of the way.

12. I’m not going to leave or abandon you.

13. We’ll get through this together.

14. I love you.

For a Partner or a Spouse

15. I know this is extremely difficult, but we will get through this.

16. I’m sorry you’re in so much pain. I am here to see you through it.

17. I’m not going to leave you.

18. We are in this situation together.

19. You are the most important person in my life.

20. What do you need right now?

21. Say nothing.

For an Acquaintance or Colleague

22. I am so sorry you are going through this.

23. Please accept my sympathies.

24. Please know that I have been thinking about you during this heartbreaking time.

25. I’m so sorry for your loss. Please know that I am taking care of your monthly reports.

Recognizing Depression

Recognizing depression symptoms in a loved one

Family and friends are often the first line of defense in the fight against depression. That's why it's important to understand the signs and symptoms of depression. You may notice the problem in a depressed loved one before they do, and your influence and concern can motivate them to seek help.

Be concerned if your loved one:

Doesn't seem to care about anything anymore. Has lost interest in work, sex, hobbies, and other pleasurable activities. Has withdrawn from friends, family, and other social activities.

Expresses a bleak or negative outlook on life. Is uncharacteristically sad, irritable, short-tempered, critical, or moody; talks about feeling “helpless” or “hopeless.”

Frequently complains of aches and pains such as headaches, stomach problems, and back pain. Or complains of feeling tired and drained all the time.

Sleeps less than usual or oversleeps. Has become indecisive, forgetful, disorganized, and “out of it.”

Eats more or less than usual, and has recently gained or lost weight.

Drinks more or abuses drugs, including prescription sleeping pills and painkillers, as a way to self-medicate how they're feeling.

hard coping assistance with depression https://progyny.com/education/ivf-facts/two-week-wait-partner-checklist/ If you don't know where to start, the following suggestions may help. But remember that being a compassionate listener is much more important than giving advice. You don't have to try to “fix” your friend or family member; you just have to be a good listener. Often, the simple act of talking face to face can be an enormous help to someone suffering from depression. Encourage the depressed person to talk about their feelings, and be willing to listen without judgment. https://www.helpguide.org/articles/depression/helping-someone-with-depression.htm “I have been feeling concerned about you lately.” “Recently, I have noticed some differences in you and wondered how you are doing.” “I wanted to check in with you because you have seemed pretty down lately.” Once you're talking, you can ask questions such as: “When did you begin feeling like this?” “Did something happen that made you start feeling this way?” “How can I best support you right now?” “Have you thought about getting help?” What you CAN say that helps: “You’re not alone. I’m here for you during this tough time.” “It may be hard to believe right now, but the way you’re feeling will change.” “Please tell me what I can do now to help you.” “Even if I’m not able to understand exactly how you feel, I care about you and want to help.” “You’re important to me. Your life is important to me.” “When you want to give up, tell yourself you will hold on for just one more day, hour, or minute—whatever you can manage.” What you should AVOID saying: “This is all in your head” “Everyone goes through tough times.” “Try to look on the bright side.” “Why do you want to die when you have so much to live for?” “I can't do anything about your situation.” “Just snap out of it.” “You should be feeling better by now.” https://www.joincake.com/blog/im-here-for-you/