By Deborah Serani, PsyD, as conveyed to Hallie Levine
Discussing the impact of depression on relationships is a subject I am well-versed in, not just due to my profession as a psychologist but also because I have personally dealt with major depressive disorder since my youth. As I address this concern with my clients, I am reminded of its significance in my own life on a daily basis.
Research indicates that strong relationships serve as a protective factor against depression and can reduce the intensity of depressive episodes. A study monitoring American adults aged 25-75 over a decade discovered that individuals reporting poor relationships with their spouse or other family members were more prone to experiencing depression.
Maintaining connections with others can be challenging when you are struggling with your own emotional pain. Here is some advice I offer to my clients and wish to impart to all individuals facing depression and those supporting them.
Depression can be perplexing as it is an unseen condition. This can be particularly daunting if you are personally grappling with it. While it may be easy to acknowledge a physical injury like a broken leg that requires a cast and crutches for mobility, the symptoms of depression such as mood swings, difficulty focusing, sleep disturbances, and perpetual feelings of sadness and disinterest can prompt you to dismiss it as something you can simply shake off.
Failing to acknowledge the reality of your depression and treat it as a chronic illness akin to diabetes or arthritis can lead to relationship strain. Unrealistic expectations can be detrimental to your well-being.
It is crucial to communicate your needs and limitations with loved ones as they are eager to support and ease your burden. Relatives often tend to fret excessively. Openly sharing your emotions and requesting assistance or a breather can make life more manageable for both you and your family.
Clarify that depression does not define you entirely. Loved ones may mistake genuine emotions such as sadness or irritability triggered by external factors like global conflicts or health concerns as signs of depression relapse. It is essential to articulate the root of your distress to avoid misinterpretation.
Honesty is key, especially when interacting with children. My own daughter, now in her thirties, has grown accustomed to having a mother managing depression.