5 ways depression affects and destroys relationships

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The widespread awareness about the ‘invisible’ illnesses, that is psychological illnesses, has brought depression and its effects on life to centre stage recently. However, even though now people understand that depression can be debilitating, many still don’t grasp the full significance of how it affects their personal relationships.

This is how it can affect your relationship if you or your partner are depressed.

1. Sex is the first to go

Table of Contents

Feelings of Worthlessness and Low Self-Esteem

If an individual is struggling with depression, their libido takes a serious hit, be it the man or woman. This can be a very difficult situation for a couple, where the non-depressed partner is supportive and loving, and still being rejected when it comes to making love. For a non-depressed person, this rejection might be hard to accept or even understand, and might be mistaken for a personal insult. If your partner has showed little or no interest in sex lately, you might want to look into the possibility of masked depression.

“Empathy and patience are powerful tools when facing depression in a relationship.”

On the flip side, if your partner suddenly turns flirtatious or promiscuous (and they weren’t like that before), this too could be a sign of hidden depression. They might be using the promiscuity as a way to boost their self-esteem and feel good.

Related Reading: How To Catch A Cheating Partner – 9 Tricks To Help You

2. Fights on the rise

A person suffering from depression feels low all the time, and doesn’t get enough sleep. This translates to increased irritability and they react over the smallest things, leading to frequent arguments and fights.

3. That doomed feeling

Hopelessness is one of most prominent part of the cognitive error triad of depression – hopelessness, helplessness and worthlessness. So while a non-depressed couple might bounce back from arguments, a couple where one partner is depressed will probably get worse, because the depressed partner will immediately believe that the relationship is dead.

Sense of Hopelessness
Constant Worry and Fear
Self-Doubt
Feeling Trapped
Emotional Numbness
Lack of Motivation
Isolation and Loneliness
Catastrophic Thinking

Related Reading: What To Do When Someone Lies In A Relationship

4. Loss of attraction

People suffering from depression are prone to changes in appetite; so they either binge eat or lose all interest in food. This leads to changes in physical appearance that makes them sadder, and might even diminish the attraction between them and their partner.

Related Reading: Infidelity: Should You Confess To Cheating On Your Partner?

5. Drowning in drink

Alcohol consumption is another side effect of depression. People usually turn to alcohol or other kinds of addiction as a crutch to fight their feelings or to numb the emotional pain. Needless to say, a drunk partner can quickly worsen a relationship.

It’s not easy to be a partner to someone who is fighting depression, but if you just keep your focus on the love you shared and remember that they too hate feeling this way as much as you do, with the right medication and consistent, supportive efforts, you can bring your partner back to you, and then they’ll love you more than ever!

FAQs

1. How can depression lead to emotional distance in a relationship?

Depression often makes individuals feel numb or disconnected, which can cause them to withdraw emotionally, leading to a feeling of detachment between partners.

2. What should I do if my partner is depressed and withdrawing?

Show empathy and patience, while gently encouraging communication. Encourage them to seek help from a mental health professional, and consider counseling as a couple if needed.

3. Can depression cause someone to become irritable?

Yes, depression can increase irritability and mood swings. This can lead to misunderstandings, so it’s important to approach each other with patience and understanding.

Final Thoughts

Depression is a challenging mental health issue that can profoundly affect relationships. It can lead to feelings of isolation, misunderstandings, and strained connections. However, with empathy, understanding, and the right support, relationships can survive and even grow stronger.

If you or your partner is struggling with depression, seeking support is a critical first step. Our licensed counselors are here to provide guidance and support for individuals and couples navigating depression. Reach out today to begin the journey toward healing and a healthier relationship.

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