5 tips for dating someone who struggles with depression

When you're dating someone with depression, being supportive in the Dating someone who's struggling with depression? Good Advice.
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Depression is one of the most helpless and frustrating experiences a person can have.

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There are times when depression can leave someone feeling paralyzed in their own mind and body, unable to do the things they used to love to do or the things they know they should be doing. A silent hug can do so much more than using cliched sayings. I believe in you. What can I do to help you? What do you think would make you feel better? Talk to them about your concerns and explain the boundaries you need to create within your relationship. Find out something that works for both of you. Constant exhaustion is a common side effect of depression.

Just getting through the day can be an overwhelming and exhausting experience. This can result in them canceling plans suddenly, leaving events early, or saying no to things altogether. Understand their depression is not about you. Many often assume people dealing with depression want to just be left alone.

Offer to take them on a drive somewhere. Ask if they want to get coffee or a meal. One on one time where you can bring them out of their routine and where you two can connect can often mean everything for them. Reach out to them unexpectedly.

The greatest resource you can share with your friend is your ability to listen. How are they really feeling and how are they coping with their depression? Offer to spend time with them once or twice a week to exercise, grocery shop, or hang out together. Ask if you can cook dinner with them and plan a friend date.

9 Pieces Of Advice For People Dating Someone Who Struggles With Depression

In his book Against Happiness: Telling them about the challenges you face or going to couples counseling can also be helpful. Just talking about your relationship and how depression may impact it lets a person know you want him or her to be a part of your life. Some women, on the other hand, expect men to take the initiative to plan dates or activities. This can be hard to do when you are depressed and you have little energy.


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  • 2. Stay Flexible.

Let her know you want to be with her, but you may have to keep things low-key. Depression, and some antidepressants, can cause you to lose interest in sex. If you are having libido problems that are medication related, talk to your doctor about alternatives that might be less likely to dampen your sex drive.

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You can also let your partner know that you care in other ways. It is important to know your own weaknesses and strengths and understand your dating pitfalls. Friedman says these types of sites can be a good place to go to, but consider mainstream dating sites as well. Discuss the process with friends and family; having a good support system can help. Be honest with your partner about your thoughts. Make sure you express your concern for them and your support. If you are concerned for their safety, you may need to reach out to professionals or emergency services.

In some cases, your partner may not agree with your concerns and be resistant to seek help or treatment. In these cases, try to get other friends or family involved in the conversation. If they still refuse to seek help and you feel their mental and emotional health is impacting your relationship, do not be afraid to evaluate your relationship and consider a break-up. Again, if you are concerned that your partner might cause themselves harm, reach out to professionals or emergency services for help.

Depression can bring a lot of challenges to an otherwise healthy relationship. Dating someone with depression can leave you feeling helpless and frustrated. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to help your boyfriend or girlfriend if they suffer from depression.

Below are some things to consider when trying to help your partner through their condition.

1. Understand that there is a difference between feeling sad and having depression.

If you are dating someone with depression, it is important to understand that depression can be related to many different factors and experiences. Understanding the cause of depression in your significant other can help you understand their diagnosis. This can help you determine the best ways to support your boyfriend or girlfriend through their difficult situation. This can be especially confusing if you feel like they are often frustrated with you.

Advice For Dating Someone With Depression

It is important to remember that depression does not always have a direct cause and is associated with physical changes in the brain, chemical levels, hormone imbalances, and family history. It can also cause a person to be irritable, and if you are around them often you might be an easy target for any outbursts. Understanding that depression in your partner is not about you can help prevent a lot of frustration. It can be easy to blame depression for any frustrations your partner expresses and to minimize their concerns.

However, it is essential to recognize that these feelings are not always caused by depression. Listen to what your partner is saying and try to work through these frustrations with them. When you see someone you love experiencing pain, your first instinct is likely to try to fix the problem. Because you have probably felt sad or down in the dumps at times, it might feel like it is easy to coach your partner through their depression. This is not the case. Depression is not a short-term sadness or tiredness that can be fixed with sleep and a positive attitude. Your partner needs your support, but it is unfair to expect them to bounce back if you provide them with happy experiences or motivational insights.

10 Tips for Dating With Depression

When you are dating someone with depression, open communication is key to keeping the relationship healthy and supporting your loved one. Let them know you are there for them and available to listen. Sharing your concerns with them about their health and well-being can also help them see the importance of seeking or continuing treatment for their condition.