How to Live With Somebody With Depression

According to the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), 15 million American adults are impacted by major depression yearly. Depression is a mental illness, which can result from a number of factors including stressful life situations (e.g. divorce or loss of a significant other). Substance abuse and the consumption of certain medications can also spawn depression. The symptoms of depression are substantial; therefore, it can be a challenge to live with a depressed individual.

Instructions

Living With a Depressed Individual

• 1

  Know the symptoms of depression. If you live with someone who is depressed, understanding the symptoms will make you more prepared to handle them when they arise. Symptoms include sad feelings, hopelessness, periods of constant crying, loss of interest in otherwise pleasurable activities, guiltiness, worthlessness, suicidal thoughts, fatigue, disruption in sleep pattern, inattentiveness, indecisiveness, constant aches and pains, weight loss or gain, restlessness, and becoming easily irritated.

• 2

  Remember that depression is not an illness that one can simply "snap out of." If the individual is showing symptoms of depression and it frustrates you, voice this in a tactful manner instead of becoming forceful. Explain that you understand she is feeling down, but that it is difficult for you to handle it at times. Be her friend instead of her adversary. Try to lift her moods by showing her the positive aspects of life.

• 3

  There is an underlying reason for the depression, which you should encourage her to discover. Encourage her to share her feelings with you and be willing to listen in a non-judgmental manner. See if you represent someone from that period of her life. Examine the pattern of her depressive episode to determine if any of your characteristics are triggering her episodes. You might also encourage her to meet with a professional therapist.

• 4

  State what your own needs are. Although she is suffering from an actual illness, your needs should be also respected and met. A satisfactory living relationship must be based on both of you meeting those needs.

• 5

  Help her to get the help she needs if she exhibits the symptoms in Step 1 for two weeks straight or more. A good therapist can help her to address the root of her depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is often used to treat depression. It targets the root of the depression and helps the patient find positive ways of coping with their illness. Medications, such as Paxil and Prozac, are often used to treat the symptoms of depression; however, they do not treat the causes. Note that medication is most effective when combined with therapy. Her physician should examine her properly before prescribing medication because therapy may be all that is needed.

• 6

  Do not take her threats of suicide or suicidal behaviors lightly. If you feel she is in danger of harming herself, call the authorities immediately.