Depression affects more people than we sometimes realize. According to the National Institute of Mental Health an estimated 17.3 million adults in the United States had at least one major depressive episode. That represents just over seven percent of all adults in the U.S.
(source: National Institute of Mental Health)
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
If your spouse is struggling with depression, it may be difficult to know how to help. In our book, 6 Secrets to a Lasting Love, we identified six different biblical loves that can help a married couple through their years together. One of them is persevering love. That kind of love is what helps a husband and wife navigate loss, tough times, and setbacks and get through the other side.
We have been through difficult times. Gary went through a few months of depression. These times are not fun. They’re hard. But those are the times that can forge your marriage together.
What can you do to hang on—to persevere—when times are tough? If one of you is dealing with depression, do several things. (If one of you is dealing with medical depression, then be sure to see a doctor. These suggestions can be helpful with medical depression, but only in addition to your doctor’s treatment.)
Spend time together and exercise. Take walks together. Try to stay active even though you don’t feel like it. Depression can suck you into a tunnel. You need to resist at every turn.
Pray together. Read the Word of God together.
Go out on brief dates.
Remember that there’s a beginning, a middle, and an end to every problem. Have a “this too shall pass” attitude. Remind yourself that God will get you through this one as well, a step at a time.
*For more practical marriage advice, check out The Great Marriage Q&A Book. It's available in our online bookstore!