DEPRESSION IN MARRIAGE.

DEPRESSION IN MARRIAGE.

Marriage is a powerful institution that helps couples grow together. However, underlying issues can cause a feeling of dejection that can eventually lead to depression in the union.

Depression can also be caused by relationship dynamics, conflicts, and stressors.

It can happen without warning/explanation even for those couples who know what to look for.

 Marital depression may be triggered by communication issues relationship conflicts, or just feeling trapped.

If depression is affecting your marriage, the ability to get on top of your depressive symptoms can be a vital part of protecting and bonding with your loved one.

Symptoms can also manifest as increased conflict, withdrawal or emotional disconnection in the marriage.

Before getting on how to cope with the condition, it’s really important to understand how one got to the situation in the first place.

Let’s take a quick look at some causes of couples’ depression in marriage.

*Communication issues- Poor communication, lack of active listening and unexpressed emotions can lead to feelings of isolation and depression.

*Financial stress- Financial struggles, debt, and lack of financial security can cause significant stress and tension in a marriage.

*Missing intimacy- What keeps a couple together is the desire to stay intimate with one another physically and emotionally: a disconnection of both can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.

*Infidelity- A spouse’s habit of cheating can leave one feeling depressed as betrayal of trust can cause deep emotional pain and depression.

*Unrealistic expectations- Lack of understanding, and differing values can lead to disappointment and depression when expectations are not met.

*Power struggles- Ongoing conflicts, control issues, and lack of compromise can create a toxic environment.

*Trauma/past experiences- Unresolved trauma, past abuse, or neglect can impact mental health and relationships.

*Health problems- Chronic illness, pain, or disability can affect mood, energy, and overall well-being if not properly managed.

*Feeling trapped- Lack of independence, autonomy, or feeling stuck in the relationship can contribute to depression.

*Lack of support- Feeling unheard, invalidated, or unsupported can exacerbate depression.

COPING MECHANISMS FOR DEPRESSION IN MARRIAGE:

Here’s a few coping mechanisms to help couples beat depression in marriage.

* Open communication: Be deliberate by practicing active listening, express emotions, and address issues openly. Don’t hold back.

* Go for therapy: Seek professional help for couples’ therapy or individual therapy; this can provide guidance and support.

* Rebuild emotional connection: Make an effort to create more time for each other by scheduling quality time, practice empathy, and engage in activities that foster intimacy like holding hands, kissing each other before leaving home, buying gifts and so on.

* Address underlying issues: Keep partners close even during moments of disagreement. Identify and work through conflicts, trauma, or past experiences.

• Take care of yourself: Practice self-care, encourage individual self-care, stress management, and relaxation techniques.

These has a way of improving your decision making skills.

* Foster a supportive environment: Create a safe, validating, and supportive space in your marriage.

* Set realistic expectations: Understand and accept each other’s flaws, limitations, needs, and differences.

* Embrace forgiveness: Be vulnerable, work towards forgiveness, understanding, and healing.

* Cultivate independence: Have a hobby, maintain individual identities, interests, and friendships.

* Seek support groups: Do so by joining support groups/online communities for additional guidance and connection.

Every martial situation is unique but patience, understanding, and being intentional are essential for managing and overcoming martial depression.

SissyAde an Integrative sex therapist/relationship coach and the family speaker loves collaboration and works globally.