The Side Effects of depression on relationships

Symptoms of Depression

If you suspect that you or someone you know may have depression, here are the symptoms to watch out for:

• Extremely low in energy, feeling fatigued all the time

• Weight and appetite imbalances (you may lose or gain weight, have decreased or increased appetite)

• Persistent irritability

• Restlessness and inability to stay focused and calm

• Helplessness and guilt

• Disturbed sleep patterns

• Pessimism and feeling of worthlessness

Challenges for the Caregiver

Mental health issues take a heavy toll on caregivers as well as the ones suffering from it. Caregivers often find that:

• Their mental strength ebbs quickly as they constantly invest energy in keeping the depressed person cheerful and positive.

• They need to spend a considerable amount of time and energy because the depressed person may go from one extreme mood to another in a very short timespan.

• The depressed person may be heavily dependent on the caregiver and may require constant assurance and support, leaving the latter with little time to recharge themselves.

• Often, the caregivers themselves develop hostility towards the depressed person and then they can no longer maintain even keel when caring for them.

• Excessive involvement with the depressed person can affect the caregiver’s own mental state until they exhibit visible changes in persona. These last two challenges can result in a conflicting relationship with the patient,which can affect recovery.

Impact on Family Life

The impact of depression is most visible on the immediate family, be it children or spouse or parents or siblings.

• Effect on partner:

It takes effort from both partners to preserve and nurture a spousal relationship. Side effects of depressioncan make an individual feel too fatigued to make any effort and the feeling of helplessness often compounds the issue. A depressed person may be unable to express emotions well and this can widen the rift between the couple.

• Creates a negative environment:

Depression makes it tough for an individual to maintain a cheerful persona and attitude and often they resort to words and actions that convey negativity. In time, this negativity permeates the environment around them and affects everyone.

• Physical health issues:

Caring for a depressed person can be mentally and physically exhausting. Chronic stress and the resulting physical ailments (example, high blood pressure or migraines) are a common side effect of caring for a depressed loved one.

Solutions

Depression can be treated when you get the right kind of medical advice at the right time.

• Visit a doctor in time:

If you suspect you are depressed, talk to a doctor immediately. They can identify the root cause, so that you can recover effectively.

• Prioritize the wellbeing of your family:

One of your biggest support systems is your family. Remember that your depression also affects them and let this thought motivate you to get better soon. Talk to family members, acknowledge their help and the challenges they face because of your condition, and allow them to help you.

• Take the help of professionals:

Rely on medical professionals to get you through this. If therapy is suggested, follow the advice so you improve your life and that of your loved ones. Support groups can also make an incredible difference to your state of mind.

In conclusion, depression can be a challenging ailment to deal with, but with the right kind of help from professionals and your loved ones, you can beat it. Arm yourself with the right information, get timely treatment, and you can bid goodbye to it before it drastically affects you and your family.