Finding Intimacy

One of the hardest things about depression is that it often makes you pull away from the people who could help you most. Leaving the house to meet a friend for coffee—or even getting out of bed at all—can feel impossible. Your depression may become so overwhelming that it seems easier to be by yourself and let relationships fade away.

But it is almost impossible to get through depression on your own. You must reach out and rely on other people for help, even if you don't think you want to.

Reaching out

A lot of people who are depressed feel self-critical, and may even doubt that their loved ones really care for them. These feelings may be symptoms of depression.

Try to push aside these feelings and talk to the people close to you. Explain what you're going through. Ask them for help. Having someone on your side—someone who encourages you in your treatment or goes with you to doctor's appointments—can make a huge difference in your recovery.

Depression and sex

Try to talk openly with your partner about what you're going through. Even though it may be embarrassing, don't ignore the problem.

Some antidepressants can cause side effects that get in the way of intimacy. While some side effects may lessen with time, your doctor may be able to decrease them by changing your dosage or medication.

Also of Interest

Mark and Kathleen explain how their depression affected their families.