Relationship and depression 

Depression can make it very hard to maintain a supportive and fulfilling relationship. 

When someone you care about is depressed, it's okay for you to feel frustrated, angry, and upset. But you mustn't allow these feelings to fester and grow.

Here are a few things you can do to help your loved one and yourself.

• Learning everything about depression including its causes, symptoms, and treatment is the first step one should take to support a loved one with depression 
• Being there for your partner who is depressed and verbalizing your support is also important 
• Giving hope to your partner that everything will be okay and giving them reasons to keep living can be of help to them. This will make them hold on a bit longer until they feel better.
• Helping your partner get support from a professional is also very important and will make them feel supported 
• Temporarily help them around the house like cleaning or cooking for them once in a while. This is voluntary 
• Help them keep up with taking their medication and remembering appointments.
• Demonstrate your love to them by letting them know that you understand what they are going through and that you still love them. Reassure them that you are here to support them in their journey to get better.

Remember 

As you do all the above, it is very important to take good care of yourself too. Self-care is not selfish. 

Make sure you do the following:

• Eat a healthy diet
• Exercise
• Get enough sleep
• Participate in hobbies and activities you enjoy
• Practice meditation
• Relax your mind
• Spend time in nature
• Stay socially connected
• Get support if you need it