Couples Therapy: How to Help Your Spouse with Depression 

It is not uncommon for a couple to come to therapy to get guidance about how to cope with one partner’s struggle with depression. If you are experiencing the same situation in your own marriage, you might be searching for the same support.

You may struggle to know how to support your spouse when it comes to their struggle with depression. How should you respond? What can you actually do? Is there anything you can do that will make a difference for their depression? (Related article:

Depression Counseling). 

Today, you will learn some things you can do to help your spouse cope with depression. You will also learn how couples therapy can help. 

Learn More About Your Spouse’s Depression

It is hard to watch your partner struggle. Especially when it comes to mental illness. The fear of the unknown of mental illness might weigh on you and your spouse and cause extra unneeded stress during this hard time. That’s where education can be a great first step to support your spouse. The more you try to understand what your spouse is experiencing, the easier it will be to effectively communicate with them. (Related article: 5 Ways to Offer Support When Your Spouse is Depressed). 

And your effort to understand their mental health struggles doesn’t have to take excessive time away from your schedule. Even just understanding the typical symptoms, struggles, and potential treatments for depression can go a long way. Plus, you will show your spouse that you care and that you have noticed their struggles. 

Making the effort to educate yourself about depression can tell your spouse “I am on your team. I see you, and I want you to feel better. I’m here for you”. (Related article: Couples Counseling- Validation). 

Take Time to Listen

Effectively educating yourself about your spouse’s depression does not stop with general knowledge. Next, proactively ask your spouse about their personal experience with their depression. What does depression look like for them? How do they experience it? Most people with depression share common symptoms. But their personal experiences will be just that- personal!

Taking the time to check in with your spouse and ask them questions about their personal experiences with depression can be a great opportunity to learn more about them and to create trust in your relationship. 

Don’t Forget to Care for Yourself

Supporting your spouse with depression can be draining for you, too. While you make these efforts to help support and care for your spouse, don’t forget to care for you, too. If you can learn how to balance your spouse’s needs with your own, you can take advantage of the time and energy you have in a way that won’t lead to burnout or resentment.

Couples Therapy for Depression

During challenging situations for you and your spouse, a marriage therapist can give you the guidance you need. And the wisdom you learn in couples therapy can help your marriage in this phase and beyond. (Related article: Marriage Counseling- Resilience). Ready to find help for you and your partner? Start couples therapy today in Orem, South Jordan, or Spanish Fork.  

Written by Lauren Adkins