Suicide Awareness: What Partners Should Look for in a Depressed Spouse
Mental health struggles can be difficult to detect, even in the person closest to you. Depression, especially when left untreated, can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or actions. As a partner, being aware of the signs of severe depression and potential suicidal ideation can make a crucial difference in helping your spouse get the support they need.
Recognizing the Signs of Depression in a Spouse
While sadness is a common symptom of depression, it is not the only indicator. Depression often presents itself in various emotional, behavioral, and physical ways, including:
Emotional Signs: Prolonged sadness, hopelessness, excessive guilt, irritability, or feeling worthless.
Behavioral Changes: Withdrawal from loved ones, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, changes in sleep or appetite, or increased use of substances such as alcohol or drugs.
Physical Symptoms: Fatigue, unexplained aches and pains, or neglect of personal hygiene.
Warning Signs of Suicidal Ideation
While depression does not always lead to suicidal thoughts, being able to recognize warning signs of suicide is essential. Some key indicators include:
Talking about feeling trapped, hopeless, or having no reason to live
Expressing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, even subtly (e.g., "You’d be better off without me" or "I can’t do this anymore")
Giving away personal belongings or making final arrangements
Sudden mood improvement after a long period of depression, which may indicate they’ve made a decision to end their life.
How to Support Your Spouse
If you notice signs of depression or suicidal ideation, here’s how you can support your spouse:
Open the Conversation: Let them know you see their struggles and that you’re there for them. Use nonjudgmental language and express concern (e.g., "I’ve noticed you’ve been feeling down lately. I’m here to listen.")
Encourage Professional Help: Suggest therapy, counseling, or medical support. Offer to help them find a therapist or schedule an appointment.
Remove Immediate Dangers: If your spouse has mentioned suicidal thoughts, take precautions by removing access to potential means of self-harm, such as firearms or excess medication.
Stay Connected: Isolation can worsen depression. Encourage social interaction, even in small ways, and continue expressing your love and support.
Know When to Seek Emergency Help: If your spouse is in immediate danger, don’t hesitate to call emergency services or a crisis helpline for immediate support.
Resources for Help
If you or your spouse are struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available. Reach out to:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Dial 988 in the U.S.)
211 (For local crisis and mental health resources)
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
**Local Therapists and Support Groups are great for non-emergent support. If you are in crisis, call 911. **
Final Thoughts
Loving someone with depression can be challenging, but your awareness and support can make a life-saving difference. By staying informed, encouraging open conversations, and seeking professional help when needed, you can help your spouse navigate their mental health challenges and move toward healing.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t forget to seek support for yourself as well. Caring for a loved one with depression can be emotionally taxing, and if you sacrifice all of your energy to trying to help them, you will be suffering too. Remember to put your oxygen mask on before helping others.
