How can you support a partner with severe depression?

[Anonymous]

[TheSpaceGnome]

I dont get along with the type of personality that blames how they feel on a feeling.

Depression isn't real. People who say they are depressed, are just people whorefuse to talk about why they are upset, because that would mean problem solving, and they can't complain if they do that.

I'd rather date an optimistic, open book, overachiever, who faces their problems head on and rises to meet any challenge.

[TheSpaceGnome]

who refuse*

[AndrésC64]

You have to understand that there is nothing that you can do. That sounds horrible and is difficult to do. But it's the truth. Maybe suggest that day see a counselor and or psychiatrist to try talk therapy and meds. The combination of those two is really the best solution. It's not a guarantee or even a quick fix, it certainly has helped me. I know that I wouldn't be where I am today if not for those things.

[Kaylapremi]

Unfortunately, your partner has to be willing to get help. I struggled with depression my whole life. The only thing I can compare it to is swimming. My good days are the ones I’m staying afloat and my bad days I’m drowning. For me I just needed support and someone that listened to me. Counseling and medication can help as well.

[lrina]

there really isn't much you can do no matter how hard you try, but a few things that MIGHT help a tiny bit (although it probably wouldn't do that much) is just take him outside, do something that he may enjoy, and those kinds of things.

[luvstoned4him]

I wish I could say understanding and being by their side is enough but it isn't. They would need to see a therapist and possibly get medicine because it's really a very challenging disorder to deal with

[sheikalana]

I've dated someone with severe depression a few years ago. And I thought it was my responsibility to take care of them but trust me if that person doesn't want to be helped there's not much you can do.

[Juxtapose]

You can't, you absolutely can't.

I have tried everything but that dark cloud is always there and even if you are a perfect angel to them eventually they will hate you because you're happy and they're not.

[Juxtapose]

I have friends that are quite depressed and what I do for them is just be there and be understanding. But in a romantic relationship I don't know.. I feel like my kind and passive nature would be taken for weakness and they would use me as an emotional abuse object.

[Jltakk]

As someone with severe depression and other mental afflictions, let me just say that its not your job to mother your partner. He or she has to want to help themselves. This is absolutely key, otherwise, nothing will work.

[MrtoddsWildRide]

Hold them accountable for seeking treatment and taking medication. Letting them know that their mental health is important to you will be amazingly supportive.

[cth2188]

Support your mate to get professional help there’s nothing you can do , but be an emotional support. I can imagine how draining that is..

[exitseven]

I would encourage them to see a therapist and volunteer to go with them.

[megabamse]

Mmmm i sure hope it goes over. Because if it's a permanent deal i might check out.

[noohair]

First, Understand what depression is.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/NOAgplgTxfc

[Anonymous]

Discover new things that you enjoy to do together or alone

[imfreeze95]

I do not know I get severely depressed

[Guslove]

It’s tough and can be scary…

[Anonymous]

Kick em in the nutz.