Depression is a mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide.It can affect every aspect of a person’s life, including their relationship. If you feel your partner might be depressed, it is important to recognise the signs of depression early, so you can offer them support and help they need.
In this blog we are going to learn about common signs that suggest your partner may be suffering from depression, and what you can do to help them.
Although a final diagnosis should be made by a healthcare professional, here are some common signs of depression you can look for in your partner:
Signs Your Partner May Be Depressed
1. Persistent Low Mood Or Sadness:
One of the most prominent signs of depression is persistent low mood and feelings of sadness.If you have noticed that your partner is constantly feeling low for weeks or months, it could be more than just a passing phase. Your partner may seem withdrawn, tearful and often express feelings of emptiness.
2. Feeling Of Hopelessness & Helplessness:
Depression can make a person have an overwhelming sense of hopelessness and helplessness. Your partner might feel as though there is no way out of their struggles and things are never going to get better. They might use phrases like “nothing will ever change”, “I am stuck in this situation and don’t know how to get out”. These feelings can affect their self esteem and motivation and add to their emotional burden.
3. Loss Of Interest In Activities:
One of the symptoms of depression is losing interest in activities that you once enjoyed. These can include hobbies, socialising with friends and family, going out etc. You might notice that your partner is avoiding activities they used to love, like attending a social gathering, watching their favourite shows, or even spending quality time with you. They might look disinterested or indifferent from activities they once looked forward to.
4. Changes In Sleep Patterns:
Depression can cause changes in sleep patterns. It can either make a person sleep too much or too little. You might notice that your partner is either sleeping excessively or having trouble sleeping at all. They may seem lethargic or having trouble getting out of bed. They might be struggling to fall asleep, or waking up early or having restless nights.
5. Changes in Appetite:
Depression can also affect appetite. It can make people eat too much or too little. You might notice a significant increase or decrease in your partner’s food intake, which can cause noticeable changes in their weight. Either they might not be eating properly or skipping their meals or binge eating to cope with their emotions.
6. Increased Irritability Or Anger:
Depression can also manifest as irritability and anger. It can make people feel overwhelmed by their emotions, which can make them act out of character or snap at their loved ones. You might notice that your partner is getting upset quickly over small issues, having a shorter temper than usual , or being oversensitive.
7. Feelings Of Guilt Or Worthlessness:
Depression can make people feel worthless or guilty. It affects their self esteem and they struggle with feelings of low self-worth or not being good enough. It can also make people criticise themselves for things out of their control or feel guilt for perceived failures or mistakes. You might notice that your partner is expressing feelings of inadequacy or they are constantly apologising for things they have not done wrong. They may also feel as if they are a burden to others and isolate themselves.
8. Lack Of Energy And Focus:
Depression can make people have low energy and focus. You might notice that your partner is unusually tired, sluggish, distracted and forgetful . They are having a hard time focusing or concentrating on a task or a conversation. This can make doing simple tasks like getting out of bed, going to work or doing household chores overwhelming for them.
9. Unexplained Physical Symptoms:
Depression not only affects mood and mental health, it can also manifest in physical symptoms. Your partner may complain about frequent or chronic headaches, stomachaches, muscle and joint pains, fatigue, or general aches and pains without any clear cause. These signs usually do not seem directly related to a mental health issue and can be overlooked.
10. Withdrawal From Social Interactions:
One of the most common signs of depression is withdrawal from social interactions or activities. It makes people feel isolated and as a coping mechanism for their overwhelming emotions, they start withdrawing. If you notice that your partner has suddenly started to avoid spending time with friends, family or even with you, it could be a sign that they might be struggling with depression.
11. Expressing Thoughts About Self Harm Or Suicide:
It is one of the most alarming and serious signs of depression. Depression can make people feel like there is no solution to their problems and there is no way out of their pain. This can make them see self harm and suicide as a way to escape. If your partner is talking about self harm, suicide, or death, it is crucial to take these comments seriously and take immediate help from a mental health professional.
How Can You Help?
Here is what you can do to help and support your partner when they are struggling with depression:
Have An Open Conversation With Your Partner:
Gently approach your partner and ask them how they are feeling. Avoid being judgemental and dismissive of their feelings. Let them know that you are there for them.
Be Patient And Understanding:
Depression is not a condition that can be healed overnight. Understand that your partner would need time to get better. Be patient with them and be there to support them.
Encourage Them To Seek Professional Help:
Depression can often need professional help like therapy or medication or both. You should encourage your partner to talk to a mental health professional who can evaluate their condition, make a diagnosis and provide the professional help and support they need. They can also get help from NHS talking therapies service or support groups in their area by visiting Mind website.
Take Care Of Your Own Self:
Taking care of someone who is suffering from depression can be emotionally draining. It is important that you take care of your own mental as well as physical well-being. You can consider taking help from a therapist or support group to navigate this experience.
If you are suffering from depression and need some time off work or school to take care of yourself and recover, you might need a sick note to officially communicate your absence. You can get a sick note online within minutes by an EU licensed doctor, from the comfort of your home.