Coping with depression in a relationship
BOSKRUIN – Loving someone who is going through depression is no easy task.
February is the month of love, and loving someone dearly does not necessarily mean buying them roses and flowers on Valentine’s Day.
Loving someone who is going through depression and may even be contemplating suicide is no easy task. On the other hand, if you are struggling with depression, it is hard to understand why anyone would want to be with you.
According to Sarah Lamont from Akeso Crescent Clinic in Boskruin, the first step in coping with a depressed loved one is to get outside help.
She said, “You may very easily become an emotional sponge, meaning that their feelings of hopelessness can be transferred to you.
“Getting an outside perspective to share advice with you will immediately help you to cope with that burden.”
Depression can make your partner seem distant, and they may feel like they are a burden or close themselves off.
None of this means your relationship is the problem, and you should not feel that you are the root cause. Lamont added, “When coping with depression in a relationship, those psychological feelings can carry over into things like going on dates, sexuality or even [holding] basic conversations.
“It is also very likely that the reason they’re not interested in those things has absolutely nothing to do with you.”
According to Lamont, communication is key. She said, “Tell your partner how you are feeling… Though they will never fully understand what you are going through unless they are themselves [depressed]. A little bit of communication will add some perspective.”
This week is Teen Suicide Prevention Week, and when teenagers are in a relationship, they can be even more vulnerable, as any relationship problems can be highly polarised because they are so new to them.
Lamont added, “Most importantly, seek help… If you or your loved one is unable to access private consultation, there are amazing private hotlines where you can call to get advice.”
Details: www.akeso.co.za or 011 447 0268. In the event of a psychological crisis, call their hotline on 086 143 5787. Sadag: 0800 567 567.
ALSO READ: #TeenSuicidePreventionWeek: The destructive powers of depression – a personal story
