Depression

If your partner is depressed...

Obviously, these dynamics can adversely affect you and your marriage.

Here's what you can do to help yourself while your partner is depressed:

• Remind yourself it's the depression acting up, not your partner.

• Be careful not to sacrifice your own life; stick to your usual routine.

• Accept all the support you can get and be sure to have someone, maybe a supportive therapist with whom you can talk.

• Get out of the house; don't get isolated

• Stay healthy: eat right and exercise.

• Try not to take responsibility for your partner's moods; realize you are neither the cause nor will you be the savior.

Now what can you do to help your partner?

• Highlight the times when he or she is not sad.

• Allow your partner to experience sadness.

• Help your partner re-remember the best aspects of themselves (past, present and future.)

• If your partner is not in the mood to socialize, alleviate the pressure by negotiating a walk instead.

• Be available to listen.

• Most importantly, give your spouse time.