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Over 60 percent of the population have been diagnosed with
depression at some point in their lives. The symptoms leave
a person feeling hopeless, doomed, unhappy, unmotivated,
unable to enjoy simple life matters, lonely and often
suicidal.
Being in a relationship with an individual who is suffering
from depression can be difficult in handling the
expectations. We expect happiness, fun, companionship and a
hopeful future often sharing commonalities with each other
and also enjoying the differences. Depression can put a
damper on anyone’s love life and is often the reason other
negative aspects come into the picture.
Domestic violence, abuse, trauma, substance abuse and other
negative factors weigh in on how you hoped to love and be
loved. Unfortunately, depression is severely misunderstood
in relationships and will often end a good pairing of a
couple who just want to love and be loved and share a life
together.
Take a mental health moment to discuss any issues with your
spouse/partner whom with you may be co-habiting or dating if
you feel that depression may be the culprit putting the
negative qualities into your relationship but remember to
check yourself as well. Sometimes both individuals in the
relationship may be suffering from depression.
Depression is real but is not always the case for all
issues. Some of us can be unhappy, unstable, have low
self-esteem and just plain victims of circumstances that
cause us to feel some of the symptoms of depression, but it
doesn’t have to mean that it is a true diagnosis.
Fortunately, depression does not always last forever, it can
be hereditary or a short-lived turmoil via one’s
experiences.
Depression is treatable with a variety of methods but most
important it needs to be properly assessed. If the person
you are with seems to no longer be the one with whom you
fell in love and has changed the relationship close to
ending at least give them and your relationship the
opportunity to continue by caring enough to assist them in
finding the proper help. Talk to your primary care
physician or see a mental health provider as soon as
possible.
Love is a beautiful part of life and when you have the
opportunity to enjoy it do your best to keep it and that
special person in your life.
Bernadette Graham is a Licensed Professional Counselor,
National Certified Counselor and Certified Grief Recovery
Specialist. She is available for presentations and speaking
engagements on mental health topics. Provide feedback or
reach out at graham.bernadette@gmail.com or visit her
website at www.bjgrahamcounseling.com. 419.409.4929 for
appointments.
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