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4 . Create a supportive , active home environment
It ’ s important to ensure that your home is filled with as much positivity as it can to aid your partner in their recuperation . Ways you can help improve the home lifestyle are by :
Eating healthier - cook healthier meals and encourage better food choices Exercise more - daily bike rides or walks Help your partner stick to their treatment - drive them to their appointments , and sit in the waiting room while they ’ re being seen . Make plans together - go on hikes , play board games , and watch a movie with popcorn and snacks available .
5 . Focus on small goals
Depression is overwhelming . Even the smallest thing such as getting out of bed is a big ask for your partner . Set small goals for your partner i . e . to take a shower or finish a meal . Having your partner complete these goals will make them feel positive about themselves and is a step closer to recuperation .
6 . Know the warning signs of suicide
People who suffer depression offer suffer from suicidal thoughts . Knowing the warning signs of
suicide can help both you and your partner by ensuring they get urgent medical assistance . Signs are :
• Talking about suicide
• Social withdrawal
• Feeling overwhelmed with hopelessness
• Engaging in risky behaviour e . g . excessive drinking
• Giving away belongings
• Personality changes
• Saying goodbye via text or any form
• Changes in daily routine
Having a partner with depression can be difficult , but the steps above will guide you on how you can help them . Also , take a minute to focus on your mental health as well as theirs .
ManHealth contact number : 0800 0516 17171
ISSUE 1 MENTION IT 19