Depression is a word that gets used a lot
these days but there is very little attempt to understand what it means. Thanks
to several celebrities who have started speaking up about the issue, there is
now a media dialogue happening around the subject, but things are still in very
early stages. On the face of it, depression can look like just another mental
illness. However, it is one that has major social and personal ramifications as
well. Its impact is felt well beyond the individual and can be felt on his
surroundings, his relationships and his work as well. In such a scenario, it
almost becomes the responsibility of the depressed individual’s ecosystem to
step up and ensure they work hard towards recovery and management. Therefore, depression
therapy is so essential. Let’s explore the tenuous connection between
depression and marriages and relationships in further detail.
For starters, depression arrives within a
relationship like an unwelcome relative. Any relationship is always a work in
progress there is always some amount of tension present behind the scenes of
every relationship. But the biggest saving grace of any relationship lies in
the fact that both partners can constantly and effectively communicate their
needs and problems with each other. The first impact depression has on a
relationship is that it breaks down communication. Marriage counseling
is primarily needed to help couples communicate better and it is a major factor
within any relationship. The problem is that the depressed individual tends to
feel misunderstood and isolated. They find it more and more difficult to talk
to their partner and eventually this creates a rift between them. The other
partner usually cannot comprehend this change of behavior. They often feel hurt
and neglected and could end up blaming themselves for the problems in their
relationships. In time, something like depression can affect the happiness and
well-being of the couple too. What once was enjoyably shared between the too,
now takes on a tone of routine and boredom. The depressed individual tends to
lack drive and is usually not very interested in doing anything. In time this
apathy creeps into everything and it is very easy to mistake this for a
decaying relationship. There is a strong need to understand that this could be
due to depression and depression therapy will be required.
Seeking depression help
as a couple in the form of relationship or marriage counseling is the only way
a couple can navigate out of this mess. When you seek depression help as a
couple, the therapist will first analyze both your behavior patterns to see how
you work off each other. They will then make notes and help both of you work on
your relationship issues. The therapist will help the depressed individual open
about their feelings and will enable and empower them to share their feelings
with their partners. On the other hand, the therapist will also work with the
partner to sensitize them to what the depressed person is feeling.
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