Coping With Depression During Menopause

Menopause, a natural phase in every woman’s life, often comes with a host of physical and emotional challenges. While it’s commonly associated with physical symptoms like hot flashes and sleep disturbances, the impact of menopause on mental health, particularly depression, is less frequently discussed yet equally significant.

Understanding the intricate link between menopause and depression is essential for women navigating this transition. This article aims to shed light on why depression can occur during menopause and its profound effects, offering insights and knowledge for those who might be struggling silently.

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Understanding Menopause

Menopause marks the end of the reproductive years of women. It typically occurs as early as their late 40s or as late as their early 50s. It’s a natural biological process signifying the cessation of menstrual cycles for at least twelve consecutive months. But menopause is more than just the end of fertility; it’s a complex interaction of hormonal, physical, and psychological changes.

Central to menopause is a shift in the hormones that your body produces — specifically two: estrogen and progesterone.

Estrogen regulates two particular neurotransmitters in your brain: serotonin and dopamine. These two chemicals regulate mood, and generally make you feel happy and content. However, menopause disrupts your hormonal balance, meaning that your hormone levels — including estrogen and progesterone — begin to fluctuate, creating a range of emotional symptoms. You can expect:

  • Mood swings
  • Irritability
  • Depression

However, menopause is not just a hormonal story. It’s linked with a woman’s identity, physiology, and social roles. As women approach this phase, they often juggle multiple life stressors like aging, changes in their familial and social roles, and concerns about physical health and attractiveness. All these factors can contribute to the onset of depression during menopause.

The Link Between Menopause And Depression

Menopause, a natural but complex transition, carries more than just physical changes; it significantly impacts mental health, particularly in the form of depression. The intricate relationship between declining hormonal levels and mood regulation during menopause leads to an increased risk of depression.

Hormonal Fluctuations

Hormones are chemicals that define several things in your body. Mentally, they can govern your emotions, for example. On the physical end, hormones also stimulate changes — everything from muscle growth from exercise to life changes are governed by hormones.

During menopause, the erratic and eventual decline in estrogen levels can directly impact mood. Estrogen is linked to the production and regulation of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of well-being and happiness. The hormonal upheavals during menopause can, therefore, disrupt this delicate balance, leading to mood disturbances and depression.

Psychological And Emotional Impact

Menopause is more than a physical transition; it’s a significant life event that can stir a range of emotions and can be one of the reasons behind depression in infertile women. The social meaning behind menopause tends to be negative; women tend to view this time as symbolic of:

  • Aging
  • Loss of fertility
  • A shift or loss in femininity
  • A change in sexual identity

This emotional weight, coupled with societal attitudes towards aging women, all contribute to menopause being viewed as a difficult or negative phase in a woman’s life.

Being at the receiving end of this change can negatively impact the psychological wellness of women. Having that capability of creating another human being taken away from you because of aging can sometimes be very difficult to accept.

Stress Factors

The menopausal transition often coincides with other stressful life events. Women may be caring for aging parents, dealing with the departure of children from home, or facing their own or their partner’s health issues. These stressors, alongside the internal changes of menopause, can create a fertile ground for depression to take root.

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Symptoms Of Depression During Menopause

Depression in menopause often masks itself under the guise of typical menopausal symptoms, making it hard to detect. Emotional fluctuations, physical changes, and cognitive shifts are key indicators. Acknowledging these symptoms is the first step towards appropriate management and support.

Emotional Symptoms

Depression during menopause has the exact same symptoms as those of depression due to other causes. Specifically, these are persistent feelings of:

  • Sadness
  • Hopelessness
  • Reduced interest in activities, even enjoyable ones
  • Worthlessness
  • Excessive and perceived guilt, sometimes without cause
  • A general unhappiness

Physical Symptoms

Changes in sleep patterns are common during menopause, but depression can exacerbate these disturbances, leading to insomnia or excessive sleeping. Other physical signs include changes in appetite and weight, decreased energy, and unexplained aches and pains.

Cognitive Symptoms

Depression can affect cognitive abilities, leading to trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things. This cognitive fog, often dismissed as a normal part of aging, can be a significant aspect of depression during menopause.

Effects Of Depression On Menopausal Women

The reach of depression during menopause extends far beyond affecting your mood — it can also affect your physical body.

Impact On Quality Of Life

Depression can significantly dampen the quality of life. It can make everyday activities, which once brought joy, feel burdensome. Relationships may suffer as women withdraw or struggle with mood swings and irritability. You’ll likely also have more difficulty working, socializing, or engaging in hobbies — even ones you perform alone. All these effects create a sense of isolation and loneliness.

Physical Health Consequences

The interplay between depression and physical health is complex. Depression can speed up menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and sleep disturbances. It also increases the risks to your orthopedic health — women with depression tend to be more likely to develop chronic conditions such as heart disease and osteoporosis.

Depression combined with the hormonal changes of menopause can feed into itself, with depression making the symptoms of menopause worse, and the symptoms of menopause exacerbating the depression. According to an NCBI article, physical health problems can increase the likelihood of developing depression by 88%.

Long-Term Mental Health Implications

Untreated depression during menopause can have long-term implications. It may raise your chances of anxiety, chronic depression, and a lowered sense of general well-being. To avoid these long-term consequences and to encourage a happier, healthier post-menopausal life, early intervention is essential.

Coping Strategies And Management

Navigating depression during menopause requires a multifaceted approach. Embracing a combination of lifestyle changes, emotional support, and professional intervention can lead to effective management of depressive symptoms. Empowering women with strategies to cope with these changes fosters resilience and a positive transition through menopause.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Adopting a healthy lifestyle plays a pivotal role in enhancing mental health, especially during challenging life transitions like menopause.

  • Regular physical activity improves mood and reduces depression symptoms.
  • A balanced, nutrient-rich diet for overall health.
  • Prioritizing sleep and good sleep hygiene to combat insomnia and fatigue.

Emotional Support

Connection with others is vital. Remember that you’re not alone — talking with your friends, family, or a support group can have huge benefits for your mental health if you’ve been experiencing depression during menopause. Several studies have shown that sharing your experiences with people who have similar circumstances has a powerful effect on your emotions, and is incredibly validating and comforting.

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Professional Help

Seeking help from mental health professionals is a crucial step for many. One of the primary benefits of counseling and therapy is that they’re safe places for you to explore your feelings. A licensed mental health professional can also help you develop or determine coping strategies that work well for you.

In some cases, medication, such as antidepressants, might be recommended. However, remember that visiting a health professional isn’t the end-all answer — ideally, you should combine professional help with lifestyle changes to create lasting change in your life.

Depression During Menopause

Depression during menopause is a significant issue that deserves attention and care. Experiencing depression during menopause is not a sign of weakness but a common and treatable condition.

As women, we need to realize that asking for help when we need it is a good thing. Looking for assistance and having the courage to admit that you’re not at your best takes more strength than hiding it away — and will also help you get better.

Menopause, while challenging, can also be a time of growth and renewal — it’s all about having the right support systems and being ready with coping strategies to handle it. It can also help to take a different approach to menopause; rather than seeing it as a problem to overcome, instead view it as a new phase of your life. The transition may be a little rough, but be confident and optimistic: it’s a time to grow.

If you’re going through the transition of menopause, remember that first and foremost: you’re not alone. Seeking help is the most powerful thing you can do — no matter how down you feel or how difficult it is, finding company can help you overcome any challenges you face.

Menopause may be a natural part of aging, but it doesn’t have to define your future. With understanding, support, and care, you can emerge through this transition healthier, wiser, and more connected to yourself than ever before.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can menopause make you feel depressed?
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Navigating The Silent Struggle Of Depression In Infertile Women

In a world where the joys of motherhood are celebrated at every corner, the silent struggle of infertility often remains hidden, cloaked in whispers and shadows. For many women, the inability to conceive is not just a physical challenge but a journey marked by emotional turbulence and profound sorrow.

Among these challenging times, depression often emerges as a silent companion, yet its presence is seldom acknowledged in the broader narrative of women’s health. This article delves into the heart of this issue, exploring the intersection of infertility and depression in women.

It aims to explain the complex emotional landscape these women navigate, shedding light on the often-unseen struggles and offering an understanding and empathy in an otherwise isolating journey.

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The Emotional Impact Of Infertility: Emotional Turmoil And Its Triggers

Infertility is often a silent battle, fought behind closed doors, with emotions that are deeply personal and frequently misunderstood. For many women, the journey through infertility is one of profound emotional upheaval. The hope of conceiving, followed by the despair of unsuccessful attempts, can lead to a cycle of intense emotional responses.

Feelings of loss and depression during menopause are common, as the dream of motherhood seems to slip further away with each passing month. This loss is not just about the inability to conceive but also about the loss of a certain envisioned future, the alteration of a life story that many had taken for granted.

Societal Pressures And Expectations

The emotional turmoil is further compounded by societal pressures and expectations. In many cultures, motherhood is seen as a defining aspect of womanhood. Women who struggle with infertility often grapple with feelings of inadequacy and failure, as if their inability to conceive diminishes their femininity or worth.

This can lead to a profound sense of isolation, as they feel alienated from friends and family members who do not understand their struggle or, worse, inadvertently contribute to their pain with insensitive comments or questions.

Tension In The Relationship

Additionally, the emotional impact of infertility is not just confined to personal and societal spheres. It often extends into the couple’s relationship, leading to stress and tension. The pressure to conceive can strain the most resilient of partnerships, with each failed attempt bringing a sense of shared disappointment and sometimes, misplaced blame or guilt.

Depression: A Closer Look At The Definition And Symptoms

Depression, in the context of infertility, is more than transient sadness or disappointment. It is a clinical condition that can significantly impair a woman’s quality of life. Clinically, depression is characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest in daily activities.

It’s not just about feeling down; it’s about being in a state where the colors of life seem faded, and everything feels overwhelmingly burdensome.

Symptoms of depression can vary but often include:

  • A deep sense of hopelessness
  • Fatigue or loss of energy
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Sleep disturbances (either insomnia or excessive sleeping)
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
  • In severe cases, recurrent thoughts of death or suicidal ideation

These symptoms can be debilitating, making it difficult for women to carry out daily tasks, maintain relationships, or even care for themselves properly.

Linking Infertility And Depression: Implications

The link between infertility and depression is a complex interplay of psychological, social, and biological factors. Infertility can trigger depression, especially in women who have a previous history of depressive episodes or are particularly vulnerable due to other life stressors.

The relentless cycle of hope and disappointment that accompanies fertility treatments can exacerbate these feelings, leading to a sense of loss of control over one’s body and future.

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The Biological Aspect

Biologically, the hormonal treatments often used in fertility treatments can contribute to mood swings and emotional instability, further complicating the picture.

These hormonal fluctuations can act as a trigger for depression in susceptible individuals, creating a challenging scenario where the very treatments intended to aid in conception can inadvertently worsen emotional well-being.

The Psychological Aspect

Psychologically, the experience of infertility can shatter a woman’s identity and self-esteem. The societal stigma and misconceptions surrounding infertility can lead to feelings of shame and secrecy, preventing many women from seeking the support they need.

This isolation can be a fertile ground for depression, as women struggle internally with their feelings of inadequacy and grief.

Understanding the intricate relationship between infertility and depression is crucial in providing comprehensive care for women undergoing this challenging journey. It calls for a holistic approach that addresses not just the physical aspects of infertility but also the profound emotional and psychological impact it carries.

Coping Mechanisms 

In the midst of the emotional storm brought on by infertility and depression, women find themselves in search of safe harbors to weather the turbulent waves of despair. Coping mechanisms become the compass guiding them through these uncharted waters, offering a glimmer of hope and resilience.

Let us talk about the strategies that empower women to navigate the emotional complexities of infertility and depression, providing them with tools to face adversity with strength and determination.

1. Seeking Emotional Support

One of the most crucial coping mechanisms for women facing infertility-related depression is seeking emotional support. Sharing their feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or therapist can provide an outlet for their emotions and help reduce the sense of isolation.

Support groups specifically tailored for women dealing with infertility can offer a safe space for sharing experiences and receiving encouragement.

2. Self-Care And Stress Reduction

Encouraging women to prioritize self-care is essential. Engaging in relaxation techniques can help manage stress and improve emotional well-being. This includes:

  • Meditation
  • Yoga
  • Mindfulness

Additionally, adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and a balanced diet can contribute to overall emotional resilience.

3. Setting Realistic Expectations

Often, women facing infertility put immense pressure on themselves to conceive, which can exacerbate depression. Coping mechanisms involve helping women set realistic expectations and focus on the present rather than fixating on the future.

Encouraging them to explore alternative paths to parenthood, such as adoption or surrogacy, can also alleviate some of the emotional burden.

Medical Approaches To Bridge The Gap

When emotional turbulence threatens to overwhelm those battling infertility-related depression, medical approaches stand as a sturdy bridge, connecting them to the resources and support they need.

In this section, we explore the role of medical interventions in addressing the profound emotional impact of infertility. From therapies that soothe the mind to treatments that address underlying conditions, these approaches aim to bridge the gap between despair and hope, offering a path toward emotional well-being.

Therapies And Medications

In some cases, medical approaches are necessary to manage depression associated with infertility. Therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be effective in helping women develop coping strategies and overcome negative thought patterns. In more severe cases, medications like antidepressants may be prescribed under the supervision of a mental health professional.

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Fertility Treatments With Psychological Support

Medical treatments for infertility can be emotionally taxing. Integrating psychological support into fertility clinics is becoming increasingly common. This involves:

  • Providing counseling services to women and couples undergoing fertility treatments
  • Helping them navigate the emotional challenges that arise during the process

Addressing Underlying Medical Conditions

Depression can sometimes be a result of underlying medical conditions. Medical approaches may involve a thorough evaluation to identify and address any physical issues contributing to infertility, thereby alleviating the emotional distress associated with it.

The Impact of Infertility On Partners And Family

Infertility is a journey not traveled alone; it deeply affects not only the individual but also those closest to them, including partners and extended family members. Let’s delve into the intricate dynamics of relationships in the context of infertility and how they are shaped by the emotional whirlwind that accompanies it.

The Partner’s Perspective

For couples facing infertility, the emotional toll is shared. Partners often experience a parallel journey of hope, disappointment, and emotional upheaval. However, the ways in which they cope and express their emotions can vary significantly.

Some partners may struggle to understand the depth of their loved one’s pain, while others may feel helpless in the face of infertility-related depression. Navigating these differences in emotional responses and communication challenges can be a profound aspect of the journey.

Impact On Intimacy And Communication

Infertility can also have a profound impact on the physical and emotional intimacy within a relationship. The pressure to conceive can lead to a focus on the mechanical aspects of sex, transforming what was once a source of pleasure into a duty.

Additionally, the emotional strain can strain communication, making it difficult for couples to express their feelings and needs effectively.

Extended Family Dynamics

The impact of infertility is not confined to the couple alone. Extended family members, such as parents and siblings, can play a significant role in providing support or adding to the emotional burden. Well-intentioned but insensitive comments or inquiries can create tension within these relationships, while understanding and empathy can strengthen them.

Seeking Couples Counseling

Recognizing the complexities of navigating relationships in the face of infertility, many couples opt for couples counseling. This form of therapy provides a safe space for partners to:

  • Express their emotions
  • Bridge communication gaps
  • Develop coping strategies together

It can be a valuable resource in maintaining a strong and supportive partnership.

To Wrap Up

Infertility transcends mere medical definitions and treatments. It’s about understanding the emotional depth and the societal pressures that shape the experiences of countless women.

By bringing these stories into the light, we not only acknowledge their struggles but also pave the way for more compassionate support systems and informed approaches to care. As a society, our role extends beyond mere observers; it calls for active participation in creating a world where the silent struggles of infertility are met with empathy and understanding.

It’s through this collective effort that we can hope to ease the journey for those walking the challenging path of infertility, helping them find solace, strength, and eventually, a sense of peace.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can being infertile cause depression?
How do women cope with infertility?
How does infertility affect mental health in women?
What is the prevalence of depression in infertile women?
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Why is infertility so emotional?
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Depression From Frustrations

[Supporting Your Husband Dealing With Frustration]

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Depression can come from goals and dreams that did not become a reality. Many people may live the rest of their lives trying to chase the opportunities that they think will lead them to their goals, but sadly some opportunities knock only once.

“There seems to be a misunderstanding that depression is crying all of the time and not getting out of bed. However, increased irritability is a common symptom,” says Julie de Azevedo Hanks, Ph.D, LCSW.

Continue reading Depression From Frustrations

Understanding Post-Adoption Depression

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Some couples cannot have a baby of their own. No matter how many years of trying, they still end up with just the hope of holding a little angel in their arms. So instead of prolonging the agony, some couples decide to go through the process of adoption. But like any other life-altering decision, there are many considerations and consequences that should be pondered upon before finally going through the process. Many couples ignore those things because of the excitement they are feeling. They believe that adoption could once and for all be the solution for their longing for a child. Continue reading Understanding Post-Adoption Depression

Saving A Sinking Ship: Reaching Out To A Depressed Partner

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Paying attention to depressive disorder cues is vital in helping your partner go through the condition with proper diagnosis and treatment.

 

The Ripple Effect

 

When your partner is depressed, your marriage is also depressed because this illness reverberates and erodes the concept of sexual and emotional intimacy while suffusing a relationship with resentment, isolation, pessimism, and anger.

Dr. Susan Whitbourne, Ph.D., even said, “[P]eople who have major depressive disorder (the clinical form of depression) have higher levels of distress in relationships, feel that their marriages are less satisfactory, and become unusually upset when problems develop in their relationships. They are more likely to blame their partners when things go wrong, and they tend to shut down emotionally instead of reach out and connect.”

Even the most radiant, capable person can be sucked into depression’s forceful undertow of scenarios like:

 

  • Being overwhelmed by extra chores inside the house that your partner refuses to finish due to lethargy.
  • Being resentful due to your spouse’s behavior that he or she cannot just snap out of.
  • Taking the blame for somehow causing the illness.
  • Feeling alone for unwillingness to convey problems inside the house that are related to your partner’s condition.
  • Wondering whatever happened to a once joyful, humorous, and fun relationship.

 

Do not allow depression to seep in and destroy your marriage from inside out. If you think that your significant other is depressed, you have to act not only for the welfare of your spouse but also for your relationship. After all, you wouldn’t want to be just another statistic in the divorced archive.

 

Getting Your Partner And Your Life Back

 

Initially, the most important requirement to help a depressed better half is to know how to spot depression; therefore, one must pay enough attention in recognizing the following clues, according to Dr. Dina Cagliostro:

  • Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness, or emptiness

  • Irritability, frustration, or restlessness

  • Loss of interest in activities or hobbies that used to be enjoyable

  • Difficulty sleeping, sleep disturbances or sleeping too much

  • Fatigue and lack of energy

  • Difficulty thinking clearly, remembering, concentrating, or making decisions

  • Appetite or weight changes

  • Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

  • Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, or back pain.

 

  1. Be Perceptive Of Minor Behavioral Changes

 

Like a thief in the night, depression comes slowly and sometimes, imperceptibly. It will take time for couples to recognize a pattern and will take further time to accept that depression might be the main reason for minor behavioral changes. Sometimes, the depressed person is so in denial that all kinds of explanations are provided – it’s just a phase, it’s because of the economy, it’s because of the new baby.

 

With this kind of attitude towards the disorder, the spouse must initiate in diagnosing their partner’s condition because the illness hinders the depressing ones from realizing that there’s something profoundly wrong with their behavior. If you notice that there’s something awry about how your partner thinks, acts, or feels, suspect that your spouse might have depression. Furthermore, if your spouse has developed vices or habits like being workaholic, alcoholic, or has become a thrill-seeker, depression might be the culprit.

 

  1. Reach Out Before It’s Too Late

 

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Waiting for a ship to sink before going out on a limb to help is a huge mistake because once you head on out to rescue, the person has sunk deep. This scenario is similar to helping a partner whom you think might have depression. Letting a person hit rock bottom before offering help is like allowing cancer to spread and then hoping that the malignancy will be cured.

Dr. Emmanuel Maidenberg, Ph.D., also said, “[I]f you become concerned about someone, talk to them about what you have noticed and see if they need support. It can be incredibly helpful to intervene before things get worse.”

Chronic depression is harder to treat, can severely affect the relationship, and is more likely to happen again.  But the terrifying risk of not reaching out before it’s too late is the possibility of your spouse resulting in suicide. Around 60% of those who attempted suicide either have minor or major depression or has a different mood disorder.

 

  1. Support Is Vital

 

When seeking help, see to it that you are there when the diagnosis is revealed. A lot of illnesses which includes diabetes, chronic pain, viral infections, and heart diseases can influence similar symptoms related to depression. For this reason, once the physician rules out various underlying causes and divulges the diagnosis, it is crucial that you are there to support and comfort your spouse. There will be times that depressed patients will be denying the result or will not be able to focus on the recommended treatments. During these moments, an ally is required.

 

Ask your spouse’s consent first. Not everyone is comfortable with the idea of having someone around even if it’s their significant other. Respect your spouse’s decision whether he or she wants you to be physically there when the evaluation is given.

 

Remember that the percentage of success is promising if depression is treated early on. The road is relatively quiet simple – counseling or therapy, antidepressants, or a combination of both. But don’t be discouraged if recovery is not yet discernable within the few months of treatment. The road to success in battling depression is long and winding and requires a lot of patience, time, and understanding.

 

Frequently Overlooked Indications That Depression Is Ruining Your Relationship

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Marriage dissatisfaction and depression are said to be interlinked that their correlation also goes both ways. Meaning, depression can contribute to marriage dysfunction, or it could be the other way around.

 

Since the majority believes that a person’s well-being is dependent on the relationships they form – platonic or romantic – the difficulty to enjoy life ensues. Happiness can be occluded by the mere fact that when problems arise, especially along the sensitive subject of mental illness, many people are baffled about the reality that depression exists and is one of the reasons why relationships are going astray.

 

If you are one of many who takes your partner’s condition for granted, here are some pointers on the commonly overlooked indications that mental illness like depression is destroying your relationship one symptom at a time.

 

Disturbed Sleeping Pattern

 

Depression affects a person’s sleeping pattern – it can either be oversleeping or under-sleeping. For Dr. Wendy Troxel, Ph.D. and collaborators, there is a relationship between sleep and marriage. She elucidated, “given that the marital relationship is the primary social context for most adults and that most married adults sleep with their spouse, marriage may have important implications for sleep. Indeed, a substantial body of evidence suggests that marital status is associated with sleep outcomes, with the divorced typically having more sleep problems compared to their married or single counter-parts.” Put simply, depression This affects the relationship in a way that your significant other might be tossing and turning at night then gets drowsy in the morning that, instead of investing time in the relationship, your significant other will nap the time away. There is a fine line between laziness and depression, and you cannot solely disqualify a person’s mental condition thinking that sleeping all day is intentional.

 

Persistent Mood Swings

 

Mood swings that are mostly juggling from irritability to melancholia to anxiety have become a daily thing. Usually, these mood swings would present the following:

 

  • Withdrawn or disinterested
  • Uncommunicative
  • Needs continuous affirmation
  • Constantly worried about a lot of things
  • Abandonment fears with no specific reason

 

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Due to these mood swings, your partner’s sex drive is also diminished to the point of being distrustful of your show of affection. Mood swings are also due to the toppling of energy leading to fatigue that causes a lack of motivation to engage in usual relationship activities like going on hikes, shopping, and completing home projects.

In a study by John Grohol, Psy.D., he said that “denying one has mood swings, especially if others bring it to your attention, isn’t going to make things any better. Getting help for them can.”

Unexplainable Annoyance Towards Circumstances Or People

 

It’s just not you who takes the blame, but your partner is always annoyed by the sight of other people or the realization of certain circumstances either inside or outside your home. This behavior presents unusual demeaning or being critical of the partner by magnifying even the smallest flaws. Immediate and unpredictable outbursts are also apparent due to anger or frustration over inconsequential occurrences. Therefore, if your significant other instantly becomes annoyed over the littlest things, it might not be your fault entirely.

 

Increased Alcohol Or Drug Consumption

 

Recreational drugs or alcohol are major relationship destroyers for they can significantly influence the way your partner treats you and talks to you. As Dr. Cory Crane, Ph.D. and co-authors, had found, “daily diary studies show that alcohol consumption increases the odds of perpetrating verbal and physical aggression later that day by both men and women.” If your partner becomes alcoholic or has been increasingly secretive about what’s inside his stash, suspicion of addiction or abuse should ensue. But you have to realize that drug usage and alcoholism are just symptoms for a lot of mental and physical disorders happening in this modern-day society; therefore, it is essential that you stay adamant in knowing what the real problem is behind the abuse.

 

If you or your partner can identify with two or more symptoms that are listed, most likely, depression is looming and is hurting your union. Although it may take a lot of self-determination and courage to recognize that your partner is experiencing mental instability, acknowledging the problem is beneficial in finding a solution in mending your relationship.

 

High-Functioning Depression: Five Signs To Watch Out For

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Admit it, when someone utters the word “depression,” the first thing that comes to mind is someone who doesn’t have the energy and willingness to do things, even getting out of bed.

 

High-functioning depression is breaking that stereotype of what melancholia actually looks like. Just because you’re not experiencing bouts of sadness or are not listless to go to work, doesn’t mean that you don’t have depression. You do, but you’re just too familiar with your condition that you have managed to hold it together, making people believe that you’re doing just fine.

Margaret R Rutherford Ph.D. says that “People with high-functioning depression are able to use the skill of compartmentalization, where you suppress your own personal feelings for the moment and instead, attend to the needs or expectations of the present.”

Five Telltale Signs

 

Technically, high-functioning depression is chronic, untreated depression. Probably the most challenging facet of identifying high-functioning depression is people’s lack of understanding because high-functioning depressed people blend in so perfectly.

 

How do you know if you have high-functioning depression?

 

  1. You’re Often Anxious Or Worried

 

While it’s so easy to equate unexplained sadness and constant lack of energy to depression, people tend to overlook one common emotion that is strongly connected with the condition, and that is anxiety or constant worrying. It is essential to point out that anxiety is not just limited to the idea of fear of the unknown because it can manifest in several different ways as depression does. Anxiety, more often than not, causes people to experience confusion, mental disturbance and restlessness, and that nagging feeling in your gut.

 

  1. You Abstain From Social Gatherings

 

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According to information published by the Harvard School of Public Health, high-functioning depression looks similar to a long-term, low-grade despondency that can persevere up to five years. And even though high-functioning depression does not make someone feel hopeless or devastated, it can severely dent that quality of living, diminishing your eagerness to work, go to school, attend social events, and curb your enthusiasm for family and relationships. “People with high-functioning depression still go to work and interact with people, but outside of work, they may stop hanging out with friends, and make excuses like ‘work’s been really stressful,’” says Dr. Jason Stamper.

 

Abstaining from social gatherings or declining invites is said to be one of the first prominent signs of high-functioning depression. People with the condition will still work, interact with co-workers and other people, but once they go outside of their workplaces, they’ll go on an excuse-spree to just avoid hanging out. Most individuals who have high-functioning depression are likely to be isolative that then translate into dissociative relationships.

 

  1. You Have Type A Personality And Is Successful

 

Affluent literates or those who are living the good, prosperous life are said to lean more towards high-functioning depression as compared to those who don’t have a high pay grade or living a luxurious lifestyle. Paradoxically, high-functioning depression affects educated people who have important jobs in their chosen field of interest. While they have the privilege of being well-educated and well-off, their careers become triggers for stress. It turns out, it’s better to be low-functioning if it means saving you from a lifetime of depression medications and therapy.

 

  1. Your Definition Of Sleep Is “Disturbed”

 

Just when you thought you could get that well-deserved slumber, you end up wide-eyed at 3 am, having an existential crisis, begging the heavens for a sweet reprieve. More so, you’ve noticed that when you’re at work, nodding off comes easily and light snoozing becomes a habit. But when that time of the day approaches when you really need the shut-eye, your system sends you a message: Error! Sleep not found. “Many people with depression also struggle with anxiety, which impacts quality of sleep as well, and the symptom of insomnia crosses over between the two,” says Rachel Dubrow.

 

It’s frustrating and debilitating to be sleep-deprived. Aside from not being refreshed the next day and to be a useful citizen of your community, having too little sleep can worsen your depressive symptoms.

 

  1. Vices And Addiction Are Comforting

 

If you’re the type of person who’d rather stay at home and indulge in activities like playing video games, binge-watching, or if you find yourself drinking alcoholic beverages more than usual, or worse, if you have attached yourself to recreational drugs, then you most likely have high-functioning depression. To cover up the loneliness, you turn to your vice or addiction as an emotional bolster.

 

Source: alissabc.com

 

The disconcerting thing about wallowing in addictive substances and behaviors is that it, instead of just treating depression itself, may require you an additional layer of treatment and care. Substance and alcohol abuse further aggravates your condition, intensifying sleep deprivation, anxiety, and agitation that can directly affect your ability to cope.

 

High-functioning depression may be the less prominent sister of depression, but it is what most people in this generation are experiencing, especially those who belong to the working class. Just because you think that people who have high-functioning depression are doing well doesn’t mean that they are not slowly dying inside. Therefore, once you notice that you might have high-functioning depression, the best thing to do is get help and support.

 

 

Closing The Chapter Of A Depressed Relationship

Source: health.mil

When does one know how to end a crumbling relationship that has reduced itself to a mental health condition?

 

Falling apart is never an easy occurrence in one’s life especially if you plan on leaving someone who is struggling with a psychological disorder that debilitates not only himself or herself but the relationship as well. The reality of leaving someone behind is downright painful but is sometimes necessary for your sake. Difficult choices must be made to move on and close another chapter of your life.

 

Making Tough Choices

 

Nobody wants to be blamed for abandoning somebody during times of despair, but this does not mean that you should remain in a relationship that has been strained by depression and has no conceivable future due to guilt or duty. “Unfortunately, it’s a waste of your energy when they’re deep in depression, and actually leads to disconnection and distance,” says Caitlin Cantor, LCSW, CST. “This way of attempting to help can easily lead to arguments because your partner is unable to agree or see your efforts as helpful.”

For the sake of your mental state, sometimes the best thing to do is to bid goodbye.

 

Before Stepping Out The Door

 

You have to make sure that before you permanently close this depressing chapter of your relationship, you did what you can to salvage your partner’s mental health. Otherwise, you would find yourself drowning in a state of self-doubt and guilt that may haunt you for the rest of your life.

 

What are the steps that you should take before ultimately calling it quits?

 

  1. Ask For Help

 

Source: flickr.com

 

Aside from professional help, you also need people outside of your relationship to help you figure things out. Share your thoughts and concerns with family and friends who you trust and ask for support and advice on how to manage or deal with your situation. You have to realize that aside from your partner’s needs, yours are important, too.

“You’re living in a difficult, stressful situation,” notes Robert Taibbi, LCSW. “Therapy can help you not blame yourself, help you stop walking on eggshells, provide you with tools to help you stay grounded, and give you the support you need to manage the day-to-day.”

 

  1. Not Everything Is About You

 

Your partner is depressed for a multitude of reasons, which is why therapy is necessary to find out the reason behind the condition, pluck it out, and treat it. Regardless of what you might think, you are not the primary cause of your partner’s mental illness. People who are constantly on the brink of depression may do or say things that they don’t mean. Your partner’s psychological status causes him or her to become irrational, moody, and irritated.

Mark D. White, PhD, says that “partners will not feel truly involved in the relationship if they are not held responsible for their part in it, including both the things that go well and the things that go badly. Being relieved of responsibility and blame occasionally might feel good, but if a person is never held responsible for his or her actions, it becomes insulting and demeaning: it means that person is not being taken seriously.”

 

  1. Ponder On Practical Conclusions

 

Living with someone who has a depressive disorder and sustaining the relationship for the sake of proving to yourself, your partner, and to other people that you have survived and thrived despite the condition, is noble but impractical. Most of the time, what happens in real life is that as the mental illness progresses, the unaffected individual would also be helpless and hopeless that there will be some reprieve.

 

If you feel that hope and affection have gone out the window, it is practical for you to sever ties completely. However, walking away from a struggling relationship with a depressed partner is not as easy as it seems especially when you already tied the knot and children are involved. Pondering on practical conclusions like you and your children’s well-being is necessary. So weigh the pros and cons before separating.

 

  1. Commit To A Deadline

 

Though it is a harsh setup to impose a deadline on your partner suffering from depression, it can save you from further damage. Often, things would be unbearable not only for your partner but for you, which is why considering a deadline for change is essential. But this does not entirely mean that you should easily give up after a couple of weeks that your partner has decided to go on treatments. You must also assess if your partner is willing to take the necessary steps to get better or if he or she keeps on delaying treatment and giving out excuses. Only then should you consider your options for staying or leaving.

 

  1. Decisions Must Be Carefully Thought Of

 

Source: pixabay.com

 

Being hasty in making decisions is detrimental to the relationship that can still be salvaged by a compliant partner who tries his or her best in getting better. However, there will be moments of clarity wherein you can no longer deal with the person because he or she is dragging you down. If this happens, take a quick break by keeping distant for a while. Seek brief respite to arrive at a decision, and if you’ve finally come to your senses, permanently part ways.

 

When dealing with a depressed partner, always take time to carefully weigh your alternatives before drawing the line and heading out the door. Because the moment you decide that you want to end your relationship, it’s something that you have to live with for the entirety of your life.

 

 

Dating A Person Diagnosed With Clinical Depression

There are many challenges that you may need to face when it comes to the dating scene. You have to prepare yourself for many things, especially if you want to date a person exclusively. First of all, it is important that you have identified all your deal-breakers so that it will be easier on your part to know whether staying with a particular person is the right thing to do. Second, be sure that you have accepted all the great stuff and even the flaws of the person that you are dating. The key to the success of a relationship is constant understanding and acceptance.

Source: womensweb.in

Continue reading Dating A Person Diagnosed With Clinical Depression

Preventing Depression: It’s Possible

Source: businessinsider.com

Does depression run in your family? Do you have a fear of developing depression? Can you prevent depression? These are some of the questions surrounding the development of depression.  What are the ways to lessen the chances of developing depression?

Depression is a state of low mood and aversion to pleasurable activities affecting the person’s thoughts, behavior, feelings, and emotions for at least two weeks. The question of prevention with regards to depression is still debatable. Some experts believe that it can’t be prevented while others are not sure. The risk factors for depression are usually non-modifiable elements such as genetics, a chemical in your brain and environment. Depression is always preceded by a significant life event or trauma. Example of which is a health problem of your one’s self or loved ones. Since one can’t do anything about uncontrollable factors, let us focus on areas where one can manipulate to his benefit in order to strengthen his coping skills and managing stress.

 

source: muscleandstrength.com

Exercise

Mayo Clinic recommends regular exercise for the overall health of everyone. Research shows that exercise is beneficial in the treatment of depression through three mechanisms: increase of body temperature which then fosters a calming effect of the central nervous system, the release of chemicals such as endorphins also called as the happy hormone and lastly, reduction of immune system chemical which can worsen depression.

Jenny C. Yip, Psy.D., a clinical psychologist, said “Exercise also increases blood circulation in the brain, which is linked to improvements in mood and attention. Spending as little as 20 minutes a day on exercise can actually increase your overall productivity, and decrease energy wasted from mental stress.” In general, exercise can help in managing depression. It is best to exercise in a studio or sports team and to integrate exercise into your daily routine.

Decrease social media time

Studies revealed that the use of social media could contribute to the causation of depression and low self-esteem. Social media is addicting and is considered a necessity for communication with friends and family; however unproductive surfing in the social media platforms is not helpful for individuals with or without depression. Dr. Ethan Kross, Ph.D., a social psychologist, emphasized “On the surface, Facebook provides an invaluable resource for fulfilling the basic human need for social connection. But rather than enhance well-being, we found that Facebook use predicts the opposite result—it undermines it.”

Turn these idle times into something useful. In order to curb the addiction to social media, try using website-blocking extensions that only allow usage for a period and make a conscious decision to go on social media with a purpose.

Source: medium.com

Build strong relationships

Studies revealed that having a reliable support system and active social life can protect against depression. Try to connect with friends and family despite the hectic lifestyle regularly. Attend social events and try new hobbies.

Simplify daily choices

Psychologist Barry Schwartz book “The Paradox of Choice,” stated research that specifies having too many opportunities could result in depression. Every day, people are bombarded with options from meal choices to outfits to wear. The pressure of choosing the right option is said to be the culprit to more chances of developing depression.

Plenty of sleep

Source: newhealthadvisor.com

The quality of sleep is vital to mental and physical health. The National Sleep Foundation shares that individuals with insomnia have tenfold risk of developing depression in comparison to those who sleep well.

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy

This therapy is a combination of cognitive therapy with mindfulness. It deconstructs the way you think and encourages a person to be mindful of what is going on in the present. The method’s goal is to help individuals with depression be aware of the negative thoughts and how to revise these. Saundra Jain, Psy.D., LPC noted that “Mindfulness meditation practices are effective interventions, and sometimes for mild to moderate conditions—depression and anxiety—super-effective as front lines.” She added, “think about mindfulness as a way to soften, dampen, or quiet that internal chatter.”