Couples Counseling – Learning to Speak to a Depressed Partner
Depression can cause a mighty wedge between you and your partner. Often couples counseling helps the couple to learn to communicate to one another in a way where both parties are heard and feelings are understood.
Depression causes its share of problems in a partnership. Often depression leads to a particular kind of withdraw, leaving one partner feeling hurt and wondering if somehow, he or she caused this behavior. “Maybe I said something wrong?” “Maybe he doesn’t like me anymore.” “I don’t know how much longer I can stand being shut out like this!”
It is critical for the couple to understand that depression is a disorder and isn’t caused by the other partner. It is equally important to realize that adaptations need to be made within the couple’s dynamic to, in a sense, make room for the depression. The depressed partner feels badly enough. When they are shamed or shut out or yelled at, it only compounds the depression.
If your partner is depressed, one simple technique to adapt your communication is noticing the tone of your voice. When someone you love is depressed, their sensitivity can be profound. Make sure you speak in a manner that is calm and deliberate. Your points are more likely to be heard that way.
Depression is very serious and not to be looked at lightly. If your partner is suffering from depression, entering into marital counseling can offer the guidance that’s needed to find that light at the end of the tunnel. Don’t suffer in silence. Reach out. Help is on its way.
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- Dealing with a Depressed Spouse
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- Learning to Have Fun Again through Couples Counseling
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